About 5 Hood St
As of mid-2023, 5 Hood Street in Hamilton’s city centre is not yet an operating venue but a commercial space listed for lease (www.colliers.co.nz ). It comprises roughly 110 m² of floor area (www.colliers.co.nz ) (www.bayleys.co.nz ) and is marketed specifically for hospitality use – the listing even says it’s “ideal for pub, bar or other retail business” (www.colliers.co.nz ). In other words, it sits squarely in Hamilton’s newly formed nightlife and dining precinct. 5 Hood St is part of a block of streets (Ward, Hood and nearby Collingwood) that Hamilton City Council has been actively redeveloping as a hospitality hub, so it enjoys heavy footfall and a vibrant atmosphere (www.bayleys.co.nz ). Nearby venues of interest include the “House on Hood” at 27 Hood Street, a combined bar/eatery/nightclub, which hints at the scene that 5 Hood St is poised to join.
The site currently has no storied history – it’s essentially a blank slate awaiting a tenant. However, it occupies a spot flagged for a high-profile makeover. For example, architect Chow:Hill showcased a concept for a 5-storey “Hood Street Hotel” at this location, complete with graceful arched facades and a light-filled central courtyard (www.chowhill.co.nz ) (www.chowhill.co.nz ). That proposal (part of a council-driven South End revitalisation) called the design “contemporary high-end” and aimed to make the block a new landmark (www.chowhill.co.nz ) (www.chowhill.co.nz ). So while 5 Hood St itself isn’t open yet, it’s slated to play a role in Hamilton’s push to inject fresh life into the nightlife district (www.chowhill.co.nz ). Visitors should see it as an up-and-coming venue space in a trendy urban area.
Events and Programming
Currently, 5 Hood Street is not hosting any public events. As a vacant space, it has no show schedule or performances on record. Anyone looking for 5 Hood Street in event listings will find nothing – no concerts, comedy nights or parties are booked here. If you’re eyeing Hood Street gatherings, look across the street at 27 Hood (House on Hood), which does host local bands and DJ sets, but 5 Hood St itself is closed. Once (and if) a bar or club opens at #5, one would expect it to mirror nearby venues: live music on weekends, DJ dance nights, etc. For perspective, the nearby House on Hood explicitly advertises that live bands and DJs are welcome (houseonhood.co.nz ). Until then, 5 Hood St has no upcoming events or tickets on sale.
Tickets and Booking
As there are no current events at 5 Hood Street, there are no tickets to buy or bookings to make. It’s simply an empty leasehold space at the moment. If a venue opens here in future, ticketing would likely be handled by that venue or local promoters. For example, small Hamilton venues often sell tickets through official outlets or on their websites. Until an operator takes over #5, however, watch for announcements from the tenant or city event listings. In all cases, only purchase tickets through legitimate sources (venue box office or authorized sellers) to avoid scams.
Seating and Layout
The interior of 5 Hood Street is a straightforward, single-level space of about 110 m² (www.colliers.co.nz ). It currently has no seats, stages or fixtures – just an open shell. Depending on the tenant’s design, it might be arranged like a small bar or club: e.g. a central bar counter with standing tables around or a tiny stage at one end. (By way of comparison, 110 m² typically holds on the order of 30–50 people in bars or cafes.) The ceiling height is standard storefront height; one design concept for the street imagined a dramatic double-height atrium, but for now 5 Hood St is at normal ceiling level. Acoustically, expect a typical small-venue sound (solid walls, some echo) – any operator would install a PA/sound system as needed. For visitors, the space will feel intimate: no pillars or balconies, so sightlines are open. It will likely have basic lighting, a few tables or bench seats, and an unobstructed central area. Since the venue isn’t built out yet, bring ear protection for loud music, as is wise in any bar. Finally, note that indoor smoking is banned by law, so smoking (if allowed) would be on the sidewalk outside.
Getting There and Parking
Address and Area: 5 Hood Street is in central Hamilton (Hamilton City, Waikato). It lies just north of Collingwood Street and east of Ward Street, about a 5–7 minute walk from the main city mall at Ward/Victoria Street. From SH1 or other arterials, head toward the city centre (e.g. via Te Rapa Road or Ulster Street) and look for Hood Street off Collingwood. Local maps or GPS will find it under “5 Hood St, Hamilton 3204.”Car and Parking: Paid parking is plentiful nearby. The closest lot is the Barton Street Car Park (306 Barton St), charging about NZ$3 per 30 minutes (roughly $17 for all day) (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ). A larger garage, Central Park (443 bays at 16-20 Knox St), has entrances on Hood and Knox Streets (www.centralparkhamilton.co.nz ); it charges about NZ$5 for the first hour (up to ~$18 for a full day) (www.centralparkhamilton.co.nz ). Metered on-street parking is also available (about $3/hr) on Hood, Collingwood and side streets. Plan on driving in early evening if possible, as the area fills with diners and bar-goers.Bus and Public Transit: Hamilton’s local bus network (BusIt) serves downtown Hood St. The venue is within the central-city flat-fare zone: trips anywhere downtown cost only NZ$1.34 on a Bee Card (www.busit.co.nz ). Nearby bus stops are on Collingwood Street and Morley/Victoria Streets, all within a block of Hood Street. Frequent city routes pass within easy walking distance. If arriving from out of town, you might come via the Hamilton Transport Centre (Frankton hub) or a regional coach; from Frankton a local bus or taxi can bring you into town. (There is no train station on Hood St itself – the Te Huia train stops at Hamilton Rotokauri station, which is a short bus or taxi ride to downtown.)Taxis and Rideshare: Hood Street is easy to reach by taxi or app-based rideshare. Most drivers access it via Collingwood or Morley Street. Taxis can drop off passengers right on Hood Street (it’s a one-way street into the block). For pickups, a short 1–2 minute walk can be made to a nearby loading zone on Collingwood or Victoria Street. If you need to leave late at night (after midnight), services like Uber or local cabs are reliable as well.Walking or Cycling: The venue is a short stroll from many downtown spots. It’s about 500 m (5–7 minutes) north of Hamilton’s main Ward/Victoria intersection (the central mall). The city centre is compact and pedestrian-friendly, with wide footpaths. There are public bike racks/lockers near Hood Street (e.g. on Morley St), and Hamilton is quite flat – cycling is a practical option in good weather.
Inside the Venue
Once 5 Hood Street is fitted out as a venue, entering it will feel like going into a typical small bar or club. Initially, you might find a modest vestibule or foyer by the front door, possibly with a host stand or security. From there you walk into the main room, which will be open and undecorated as of now. Expect basic flooring (likely polished concrete or hardwood) and painted drywall. Lighting will be set by the tenant – initially think of it as dim lounge lighting once it’s operating. Since no construction is finished yet, there are currently no signs, posters, or decor inside. At performance time, the venue will add sound (speakers, amps) and stage lighting as needed. By law, any pub must have accessible restrooms, so anticipate at least one wheelchair-accessible toilet (probably in the back area). Given the space’s size, there won’t be a fixed stage unless a future promoter builds one; any performances may occur in a corner of the room or on the flat floor. Sightlines should be good, as there are no supporting columns in the middle. In short, visitors shouldn’t expect themed interiors or plush furnishings – rather a straightforward, intimate nightlife setting. It will likely feel like a renovated café/bar-room by day and a cozy live venue by night.
Nearby Amenities
Restaurants & Cafes: Several casual eateries are nearby. For example, Hood St. Bistro (at 109 Victoria St) serves breakfast and Southern-style lunch (www.hoodstreetbistro.co.nz ), and it’s only a block from 5 Hood Street. The River/Victoria St area (2 blocks south) has cafes and restaurants for any taste. The Rendezvous Hotel’s restaurant (Ulster St) is a two-minute walk, and later opening spots like sushi bars on Ward Street are a 3–5 minute walk. In practice, you can find pizzas, Asian cuisine, or quick bites within 2–3 blocks.Bars & Nightlife: The block itself already has nightlife. "House on Hood" (27 Hood St) is directly up the street; it’s a combined bar/eatery that opens at 5pm (houseonhood.co.nz ). In the immediate area (especially further down Ward Street) you’ll find numerous pubs, craft breweries and cocktail bars – places like The Riff, Len’s Bar or The Stables. In summary, for pre- or post-show drinks you have lots of choices just around the corner from 5 Hood Street.Hotels & Accommodation: Several hotels are within easy walking distance. The Rendezvous Hamilton (Ulster St) is a couple of blocks away. The Novotel and Ibis Hamilton (on Victoria St) are about a 5–10 minute walk. These are all downtown city hotels. Additionally, various motels, inns and Airbnbs lie within a 10–15 minute radius. It’s safe to say most visitors could find a room in this area without a long commute.Other Services: Essential services are adjacent. ATMs and banks line Victoria and Ward Streets. There are convenience stores and 24-hour supermarkets a few blocks away (e.g. on Collingwood or Victoria) for any quick supplies. A liquor store or bottle shop is also nearby. In short, you’ll have everything from cash machines to grocery access within a couple of minutes’ walk.Getting There Tips: Most guests will arrive on foot or short taxi/riteshare. As a tip, the parking lot behind the Hood St. Bistro can function as a convenient drop-off spot if needed. After late shows (post 11pm), buses slow down, so rideshares or taxis are recommended for safety. Also remember Hamilton offers free inner-city buses late-night on weekends – the nearest stop is on Ward Street (300m away) which can get you close to many city hotels. As always in Hamilton, allow extra time on Friday/Saturday night for traffic.
What Makes This Venue Special
5 Hood Street’s allure comes more from what it signifies than from any past. It occupies a block designed to be Hamilton’s “South End” entertainment zone – an area slated for standout design and bustling energy. In fact, proposals for this location include a 5-storey boutique hotel with a landscaped atrium and graceful arches (www.chowhill.co.nz ) (www.chowhill.co.nz ). Such architecture would be unique in Hamilton, so the entire block (including #5) is set to become a landmark if built. On a practical level, it will be the newest intimate venue amid a cluster of popular bars and restaurants. The venue will serve a trendy crowd in a fast-growing nightlife district. Locally, it’s significant because the city and tourism board have pinned hopes on Hood Street to reinvigorate the downtown night scene (www.chowhill.co.nz ). That means both acts and audiences are watching this block closely. In essence, 5 Hood Street is special because it will be the cutting-edge addition to Hamilton’s recent music-and-food maps – a shiny new venue in a high-profile location, rather than an old, unloved space.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Any new venue at 5 Hood Street will have to follow NZ accessibility rules. The sidewalk in front is flat and level, so wheelchair users should be able to enter directly when it’s open. Inside, expect at least one stall marked wheelchair-accessible in the restrooms, per code. (Because the interior isn’t built yet, you may want to call ahead in future to verify features like ramps or lifts.) Generally, you can assume step-free access and standard accessible facilities once the venue is fitted out.
What to Bring: Bring a valid photo ID if you plan to drink, plus cash or card for purchases. Mobile phones and small personal cameras are fine for personal photos. Avoid large backpacks or outside bottles (the venue will sell drinks). Dress is casual – think neat everyday clothing (jeans, t-shirts, casual dresses). As a rule in NZ bars, no fancy or formal outfit is required, but you may want to avoid anything very dirty or too revealing. If it’s a concert, earplugs can be helpful during loud music.
Rules and Conduct: Standard bar rules will apply. Don’t bring outside food or drink, and absolutely no illegal drugs or weapons. Security staff may do a quick bag check at the door. New Zealand venues often include a small service charge, so tipping is not expected. If a coat check is offered, it might cost a few dollars; otherwise, keep valuables with you. Treat the staff and other patrons respectfully and follow any posted policies for that night’s event.
Local Norms: Hamiltonians are generally friendly. It’s normal to queue on the right if there’s a line to enter, and bartenders are usually informal. Anything in your order price covers a basic service charge, so you don’t have to tip. Lastly, keep your phone charged: downtown Hamilton has good cell coverage and usually usable public Wi-Fi. You’ll need your phone or card for tickets or rideshare, so mobile data works fine if Wi-Fi isn’t provided. With a charged phone and ID ready, you can focus on enjoying the scene at 5 Hood Street.
Where is 5 Hood Street located in Hamilton?
5 Hood Street is in Hamilton's central business district. It’s just north of Collingwood Street and east of Ward Street. For example, it’s only a 5–7 minute walk from the Ward/Victoria Street intersection (Hamilton’s main city mall). On maps or GPS, it’s listed as “5 Hood St, Hamilton 3204” (Waikato, New Zealand).
Is 5 Hood Street currently an open venue or hosting events?
No – 5 Hood Street is currently closed to the public. It is an empty space up for lease. There are no events, shows or performances scheduled there at this time. In short, think of it as a vacant storefront or hall waiting for someone to open it as a bar or club.
What is the size or capacity of 5 Hood Street?
The space at 5 Hood Street measures roughly 110 m² (
www.colliers.co.nz ). This is quite small for a venue. Depending on the layout (standing vs. seated, stage area, etc.), that typically means space for only a few dozen people at a time (around 30–50 patrons). In any case, it’s an intimate space rather than a large hall.
How do I buy tickets for shows at 5 Hood Street?
Right now, you can’t – because no events are taking place there. If 5 Hood Street does become a concert or event venue later, tickets would be sold like at other local spots: typically via the venue’s official channels or ticket agencies. Check the venue’s website or social media when it opens. Until then, there are no tickets or box office to worry about.
What parking options and rates are available near 5 Hood Street?
Several paid parking lots are close by. The nearest is the Barton Street Car Park (306 Barton St), at about $3 per half-hour and roughly $17 for the day (
www.wilsonparking.co.nz ). A larger garage, Central Park (at 16–20 Knox St, which has a Hood St entrance (
www.centralparkhamilton.co.nz )), charges about $5 for the first hour (up to ~$18 aall day) (
www.centralparkhamilton.co.nz ). On-street meter parking is also available in the area (around $3–$4 per hour). In summary, busy nights typically need paid parking a block or two away.
What public transportation serves the area around 5 Hood Street?
Hamilton’s local buses stop within a block of Hood Street. The venue lies in the central fare zone, where any trip costs $1.34 on a Bee Card (
www.busit.co.nz ). Look for bus stops on Collingwood Street (near Union or Morley intersections) or on Ward Street, which is just a short walk away. If you’re coming from outside the city, you can take a regional bus to Frankton and then a local bus downtown. There is no train stop on Hood St itself.
What are some nearby restaurants or bars where we can eat or drink before an event?
Right around the corner there are plenty of options. For example, Hood St. Bistro (109 Victoria St) is one block away and serves hearty cafe-style meals (
www.hoodstreetbistro.co.nz ). A short walk to Ward Street will reveal numerous pubs and eateries (including several pizza, sushi and Asian spots). Directly on Hood Street, “House on Hood” (27 Hood) is a bar/eatery that opens at 5pm (
houseonhood.co.nz ). In practice, just a few minutes’ walk will get you anything from casual coffee to a sit-down dinner.
Are there hotels or places to stay near 5 Hood Street?
Yes. You’ll find several hotels and motels within walking distance. The Rendezvous Hotel (Ulster St) is only a 2–3 minute walk. The Novotel Hamilton Tainui and Ibis Hamilton (on Victoria St) are about a 7–10 minute walk. There are also motels and B&Bs along Victoria and Morley Streets in a 5–10 minute radius. In short, downtown Hamilton has numerous accommodations close by, so you can easily find a place to stay near 5 Hood St.
Does 5 Hood Street have good wheelchair accessibility?
When it opens, the venue must comply with NZ accessibility standards. The sidewalk outside is flat, so wheelchairs can reach the entrance. Inside, the space will need to have at least one accessible toilet, and any stage or counter must be reachable. In general, you should be able to enter without steps. To be sure of specifics (ramp width, elevator, etc.), contact the venue once it is operational.
Are children or minors allowed at events at 5 Hood Street?
This depends on the event’s license. Nearby Hood Street venues have varied policies. For instance, House on Hood explicitly allows under-18s if accompanied by an adult (
houseonhood.co.nz ). That suggests children may enter early-evening shows if a parent is present. However, if 5 Hood St ends up as an 18+ bar, minors would not be allowed after a certain hour. Always check the specific event’s age restrictions (listed on tickets or posters).
Is there a recommended time to arrive for an event at 5 Hood Street?
For small venues, it’s usually best to arrive about 15–30 minutes before showtime. This gives you time to get through any entry queue or security check, find a good spot, and order a drink. If an event listing says “doors open at 8pm,” plan to be there around 7:30pm. If you arrive very late, you might miss part of the show or face a longer line.
What should I bring (or not bring) to a show at 5 Hood Street?
Bring your photo ID, money or cards for purchases, and maybe cash for quick bar tabs. A small crossbody bag or wallet is fine. Phones and handheld cameras are usually allowed for snapshots. Don’t bring large backpacks or outside food/drink – the venue will sell beverages. Dress casually (clean jeans and a shirt or casual dress). If it’s a loud concert, earplugs can be helpful. In short, pack light and comfortable for a night out.
Does 5 Hood Street provide coat check or secure storage?
Since 5 Hood Street isn’t open yet, it has no coat check service now. When it does open, a small venue might offer a coat rack or a paid checkroom, but often space is limited. Patrons frequently keep outerwear on their chairs or at the table. To avoid losing items, carry or keep personal valuables with you. If you do use a coat check, ask staff about any fee or timing rules.
Are cameras or recording devices permitted at 5 Hood Street events?
Casual photography is usually fine. Smartphone cameras and small point-and-shoots for personal use are almost always okay. Flash photography during a performance is generally prohibited. Large professional cameras or video cameras with big lenses are often not allowed without special permission. If attending a specific gig, check the event rules online: it’s common to see “no professional camera equipment” posted for shows.
What items are prohibited inside 5 Hood Street on event nights?
Standard venue rules apply: no outside food, alcohol or beverages (all drinks must be bought inside), no weapons of any kind, and no illegal drugs. Smoking is banned indoors by law, as noted earlier. Venues often check bags – large backpacks might be refused or held by security. If you have any special equipment (e.g. musical gear), it’s best to arrange that with the venue in advance. Otherwise, bring just your personal items and enjoy the show.
Is there Wi-Fi or good mobile phone reception at 5 Hood Street?
Specific Wi-Fi is not confirmed since the venue isn’t built out. However, downtown Hamilton has strong mobile coverage from all providers, so you should have reliable cell service for data. Some nearby bars offer free Wi-Fi, but you shouldn’t count on it. Plan on using your own data or a local internet plan for tickets and communication while at 5 Hood Street.
Are tickets sold at the door for 5 Hood Street events?
Not right now – there are no events to sell tickets for at 5 Hood Street. In general, if an event is held there in future, it may or may not offer door sales. Smaller venues sometimes allow last-minute sales if tickets aren’t sold out. For specific gigs, the event announcement will say “door sales available” if they are. Until a tenant is open, there is simply no box office or front door ticketing happening.
Is there a dress code for events at 5 Hood Street?
There is no formal dress code in effect at 5 Hood Street. Patrons typically wear casual attire. For example, clean jeans, a shirt or casual dress are all appropriate. You don’t need a suit or fancy outfit. Since it’s a nightlife setting, just avoid anything too scruffy or unsafe (no offensive slogans, etc.). When in doubt, you can dress one notch up from your everyday casual and you’ll fit right in.
