Events at 2 Garden Court, Haruru Paihia

Find the best events in Haruru Paihia. This page updates daily to showcase parties, concerts, nightlife, festivals, DJ events, clubs, music festivals, things to do, and much more…

Sorry, no search results were found.

About 2 Garden Court

2 Garden Court is a modern, multi-purpose events hall tucked away in Haruru, in the Bay of Islands. Opened around 2020, it quickly became a key cultural hub for Northland, able to hold roughly 400 standing or around 250 seated guests (www.ticketfairy.com). The name “Garden Court” comes from its location on Garden Court Drive – a quiet cul-de-sac just minutes from the famous Haruru Falls. Its architecture blends contemporary design with native timber, large windows and movable walls, creating an indoor-outdoor venue that showcases the region’s natural beauty (www.ticketfairy.com). On warm evenings the rear doors swing open onto a garden patio, letting live music spill outside under the stars. Surrounded by native bush along the Haruru River, it even feels like you can hear the gentle roar of the falls during a concert (www.ticketfairy.com). This intimate, scenic setting – just a short drive from the Waitangi Treaty Grounds – makes 2 Garden Court stand out from other Northland venues. Locals and visitors alike rave about the venue’s relaxed Kiwi vibe and picturesque backdrop, noting that it offers a special evening that few other theatres or bars can match (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). Historically, 2 Garden Court filled a big gap in the Bay of Islands’ entertainment scene. Before 2020, touring bands and theatre groups often had to go to big cities like Whangārei or even Auckland for shows. This venue gave Northland artists and audiences a nearby stage, and quickly hosted everything from rock concerts to Māori kapa haka performances. In fact, well-known Kiwi bands such as The Black Seeds and Fat Freddy’s Drop have played here, alongside emerging Northland talent and guest DJs (www.ticketfairy.com). Over just a few years, 2 Garden Court has established itself as a beloved meeting place where community traditions meet live entertainment.

Events and Programming

The schedule at 2 Garden Court is packed with a wide variety of events. Live music is the main attraction – you’ll find folk, reggae, rock, country and pop acts on stage. Expect local band lineups and even Māori cultural music or kapa haka shows. As the venue advertises, everything from grassroots Northland artists to well-known NZ performers appear here (www.ticketfairy.com). For example, bands like The Black Seeds and Fat Freddy’s Drop have drawn capacity crowds (www.ticketfairy.com), and festival-style outdoor gigs in summer. Besides concerts, the space also hosts comedy nights, stand-up shows, and dance parties. The owners often book themed DJ sets or silent discos on rainy days. Community festivals, school productions, charity galas and film screenings are part of the mix too, giving a platform to causes and creativity in the Far North (www.ticketfairy.com). One highlight is the way 2 Garden Court leverages seasons and local holidays. In summer months they run outdoor music series outdoors, taking advantage of long evenings. Around Waitangi Day (February 6), there are frequently special cultural events or Māori heritage shows, often coordinated with the nearby Treaty Grounds. At least one annual charity variety concert usually pops up each year too. Shows here are generally scheduled on weekends and evenings, synchronised with holiday traffic. Concerts at 2 Garden Court can range from small community gigs (often $15–$25 tickets) to major headline acts ($50–$100 tickets), so there’s something for every budget (www.ticketfairy.com).

Tickets and Booking

Tickets for performances at 2 Garden Court are sold primarily online through the venue’s official ticketing page and authorized ticket outlets (www.ticketfairy.com). Popular shows often sell out in advance, so it’s wise to buy early. In practice, tickets usually go on sale several weeks (sometimes a couple of months) before the event, with presales announced via the venue’s mailing list and social media accounts (www.ticketfairy.com). Joining the mailing list or following the venue ensures you catch presale codes or early-bird deals. For local events or smaller acts, tickets might be under $20, whereas big touring concerts can be $50 or higher (www.ticketfairy.com). On the day of a show, there is a manned box office at the entrance (www.ticketfairy.com). If you need to pick up pre-paid tickets (will-call) or hope to buy last-minute entry, arrive when doors open (usually about 60 minutes before showtime ). The staff will scan or hand you tickets at that point. Remember to bring a valid photo ID – this is required for any under-your-name ticket pickups, or if the event is for 18+ and serving alcohol (www.ticketfairy.com). The venue accepts cash, EFTPOS and credit cards at the door and at the bar (www.ticketfairy.com), but note there is no ATM onsite, so plan accordingly. In case an event sells out early, door sales may be very limited; it’s best to book seats ahead of time. If a show is cancelled or postponed, ticket holders are notified via email, and refunds or exchanges are arranged through the ticketing provider (www.ticketfairy.com).

Seating and Layout

2 Garden Court has a flexible, open-plan layout rather than fixed auditorium seating. For most live gigs and concerts, the main floor is general admission: guests stand or mill about on a flat floor in front of the stage (www.ticketfairy.com). That means you can often move around or dance freely, and everyone has the same unobstructed view. The stage itself is slightly raised, so even at the back you have good sightlines over the crowd (www.ticketfairy.com). Because the room isn’t large, people at the back still feel close to the action – you’re rarely more than 20 metres from the stage. If an event requires seating (for example, a comedy night or a family-friendly acoustic show), staff will bring in folding chairs and/or small tables. In such a seated configuration the capacity drops (to roughly 200–250 seats) (www.ticketfairy.com), but each seat still offers a clear line of sight since there are no support columns or tiered sections in the space (www.ticketfairy.com). In summary, whether it’s standing room or a seated arrangement, almost every spot in the hall has a great view of the performers. As for the experience, the middle of the house often offers the best sound – the mixing console is located around the mid-point of the room, so audio engineers fine-tune the PA there (www.ticketfairy.com). If you want to be in the thick of things, the front row right by the stage delivers maximum energy and audience interaction. A handful of tickets for some concerts may include a reserved or VIP area (for example, a roped-off front section or padded seating), but generally it’s first-come, first-served. Thankfully there are no obstructive pillars or low ceilings, so no matter where you stand or sit the acoustics and visibility remain excellent (www.ticketfairy.com). A professional-grade sound system is used, and light rigging can be set up to highlight the performers. Overall, the venue’s adaptable design means every audience member feels included and always close to the performance (www.ticketfairy.com).

Getting There and Parking

2 Garden Court’s exact address is on Garden Court Drive, Haruru – a junction off Puketona Road just by the turn-down toward Haruru Falls. It lies about 4–5 kilometres west of central Paihia and around 20 minutes’ drive south from Kerikeri (where most Northland car rental companies are). From Paihia, head out Puketona Road toward Waitangi and Haruru; you’ll see signs for Haruru Falls. Before you reach the falls, turn into Garden Court Drive and follow it to the venue. The countryside drive is quick (5–10 minutes) and scenic. If coming from Kerikeri or the airport, take State Highway 10 toward Paihia and follow Puketona Road east – 2 Garden Court will be a right turn just before Haruru Falls (www.ticketfairy.com). There is a free car park on-site adjacent to the venue (www.ticketfairy.com). This private lot fits a few dozen cars, which is usually plenty on most event nights. For big headline shows it can fill up, so arrive early if you want a space right by the door. Any overflow traffic can park for free along Garden Court Drive and nearby streets in Haruru; just be sure not to block any residential driveways (www.ticketfairy.com). The lot includes several clearly marked accessible spaces close to the entrance, so patrons with mobility needs have short access in and out (www.ticketfairy.com). Public transport in this rural area is limited, especially after dark. There is no late-night bus service from Paihia to Haruru, so if you’re relying on transit, plan to get dropped off or use a shuttle. Taxis from Paihia to 2 Garden Court are available (the 5-minute ride is quick and affordable) – it’s wise to book your return trip in advance in case demand spikes after a big concert. Uber and other rideshare apps do operate in the Bay of Islands, but cars can be scarce, particularly late at night. If you go the rideshare route, try to schedule the return pickup in advance. On busy nights it’s common for groups to carpool out here and pre-arrange a return ride. Note that the venue’s entrance has a small drop-off area where a car can pause briefly to let people out – it’s not a full turnaround, but it’s helpful for quick drop-offs.

Inside the Venue

Upon arrival at 2 Garden Court, you’ll be greeted by a small foyer leading into the hall. Staff and signage clearly direct you to the entrance door. Before entering, security will do a brief bag check and scan your ticket. This is a friendly, efficient process: they’re mainly checking for items like outside alcohol, weapons, or large professional camera gear that are not allowed (www.ticketfairy.com). If the show is R18 (younger under-18s not admitted), they will also check ID at this point. In general the tone is welcoming – expect staff to smile and chat rather than rush you. Once inside, there’s an open lobby/bar area leading into the main hall. The venue has all the amenities you need. A full bar runs along one side of the hall, usually with local Northland beers, wines, spirits and soft drinks (www.ticketfairy.com). If you want a snack, the bar also sells light fare (chips, chocolates, nuts, that kind of thing). For larger events or festivals, they often allow food trucks or pop-up stalls to set up in the back courtyard or lawn area, so you might find options like burgers, kai meals or tacos available outside during intermission (www.ticketfairy.com). Inside the hall, clean restrooms are located off to one side – including at least one accessible toilet with grab rails for wheelchair users (www.ticketfairy.com). The staff usually provides a temporary coat check rail on cold or wet nights, where you can stow a jacket or umbrella until the end of the show (www.ticketfairy.com). If your favourite band has merch, there’s almost always a table either inside the foyer or near the bar. Fans can pick up CDs, t-shirts or stickers and sometimes even meet the artists after the set. As for connectivity, cellphone reception in the hall is generally good, so you can check messages or share concert pics between songs. The venue does not offer public Wi-Fi, but 4G/5G coverage works fine for most networks. One important venue rule: smoking and vaping are not allowed inside (by NZ law), so anyone who wants to smoke must step outside to the designated smoking area. The staff will tell you how re-entry works – usually it’s just a short door-check on the way back in. Otherwise, once you’re inside the auditorium, it’s an easy space to move around. Aisles and walkways are kept clear, so even when the hall is full, you can navigate to exits or the bar comfortably.

Nearby Amenities

2 Garden Court’s immediate neighborhood is mostly residential and quiet, so for dining, nightlife or lodging most visitors head back toward central Paihia (4–5 km away). Paihia has a full-service feel – the main street (Marsden Road) offers cafés, fish-&-chips shops, pizza and Asian takeaways, as well as pubs and more formal restaurants. If you want sit-down dining before a show, there are places serving fresh New Zealand seafood, lamb or wood-fired pizzas, and even a few sushi or Thai restaurants. Many people enjoying a concert choose to eat by the Paihia waterfront beforehand to soak in sunset harbour views. Popular spots include waterfront cafés and diners that stay open late (especially on summer weekends). After a show, a few Paihia pubs and bars often stay open late (usually until midnight or so). Tour guides, winery bars and hotel lounges around Paihia can be good for a nightcap. Keep in mind that Paihia is relatively sleepy after dark, so it’s wise to have transport arranged if you plan to stay out late. In recent years, a couple of local restaurants have even started offering pre- and post-show specials or late bar menus timed with 2 Garden Court events. For accommodations, Haruru has a few options very close by – for example, a riverside motel (with river views and a pool) and a holiday park/camp ground near the falls (www.ticketfairy.com). These spots are easy walking distance from the venue. If you need more variety, Paihia and the surrounding Waitangi area have everything from backpacker hostels and budget motels to mid-range lodges and even luxury resorts. Given the short distance, it’s common for visitors to stay in Paihia and taxi to Haruru (just a 5-minute ride). However, during high season or when a big event is happening, rooms fill up quickly – so it pays to book in advance. Overall, this location has the advantage of combining entertainment with local culture. In daylight hours, you can check out Haruru Falls (a beautiful 5m cascade with bush tracks) right down the road. You’re also just minutes from the Waitangi Treaty Grounds – the iconic historic site where New Zealand’s founding treaty was signed. Many concert-goers make a day of it: tour the Treaty Grounds or ferry to Russell, then come to 2 Garden Court in the evening. This blend of natural heritage and nightlife is part of what gives Haruru events their unique flavour (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com).

What Makes This Venue Special

It’s hard to talk about 2 Garden Court without noting how different it feels from a typical club or civic hall. One big factor is the setting. Surrounded by native trees and the Haruru River, the venue feels like a secluded clearing. Near the lobby there are large glass doors and windows – on a clear night you might step outside during a break and look up at a sky full of stars, with fireflies flickering in the trees (www.ticketfairy.com). During some concerts, the back exits are opened up so the music drifts outside, blurring the line between indoor stage and garden party. Few performance halls can claim that kind of natural ambience. Inside, the building’s design reinforces this relaxed vibe. Local camphor and rimu timber beams frame the ceiling, and the colour scheme uses soft neutrals and warm wood tones. The “watering hole” bar area feels more like someone’s spacious lakeside house than a corporate arena. Staff and owners often point out that the venue was built with multipurpose use in mind – so it has modern lighting and rigging to handle big rock shows, yet also cozy acoustics for unplugged café-style gigs. Just as important is the community spirit 2 Garden Court fosters. From its very first events, it has welcomed everyone from young families to kaumātua (tribal elders) with equal warmth. Local iwi are frequently involved – sometimes giving a karakia (blessing) or performing waiata at a show. You’ll often see children at family-friendly gigs with glowsticks and snacks, and grandparents enjoying the same concert after dark. The house crowd is known for being exceptionally friendly: artists on tour consistently remark that Haruru audiences sing along loudly and treat the performers “like whānau” (family) (www.ticketfairy.com). This genuine hospitality has given 2 Garden Court a reputation as a “hidden gem” on tour maps – word gets out that musicians love playing here because the atmosphere is so personal and a little magical. Economically and culturally, 2 Garden Court has already made an impact on the community (www.ticketfairy.com). By drawing in hundreds of music fans, it pumps customers into otherwise sleepy local businesses: cafés, motels and shops see more visitors on show nights (www.ticketfairy.com). Organizers have supported local festivals, school fundraisers and charity performances that previously had no suitable venue (www.ticketfairy.com). Every sold-out concert for a big act fuels tourist dollars in the Bay of Islands. At the same time, the venue proudly showcases Northland culture on its stage – it’s become a go-to place for regional celebrations and Māori cultural events that strengthen community ties. There have already been some legendary 2 Garden Court moments. For instance, at a jam-band night it’s not unusual for a “jam-o-meter” logic to take over: one by one, multiple bands have gone impromptu on stage together, culminating in surprise encore collaborations. At other shows, the crowd may give a local rocker such an enthusiastic singalong that even the artists say it’s unforgettable (www.ticketfairy.com). These stories – of nights when performers and fans alike felt something extra special – form part of the venue’s growing tradition. In short, between its scenic setting, adaptable indoor-outdoor design and inclusive community vibe, 2 Garden Court has become much more than just a place with a stage. Both artists and audiences leave feeling they’ve been part of an evening that was unique to the Bay of Islands (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com).

Visitor Tips and Information

If you’re planning a night out at 2 Garden Court, here are some insider tips: - Accessibility: The venue is fully wheelchair-friendly. There are no stairs at the entrance, flat access ramps, and an accessible toilet inside (www.ticketfairy.com). If you have special needs (like a walker or service dog), the staff are very helpful about setting aside a good viewing spot or letting you in early. - Arrival Time: Doors typically open about 60 minutes before the advertised showtime (www.ticketfairy.com). Arriving right at “doors” gives you time to park and go through security calmly, and to get a good spot on the floor. For big shows, a queue can form quickly, so arriving earlier ensures you won’t miss the opening act. - Tickets and ID: Bring your ticket (paper or digital) and some form of photo ID. An ID check is standard for R18 shows, and is also used to verify personal tickets at will-call (www.ticketfairy.com). If you’re an adult carrying a wallet or bag, keep them at your side; the venue staff will ask you to empty large pockets during bag checks. - What to Bring: Pack light. A small bag or backpack is fine, but very large bags or suitcases are usually not allowed in (www.ticketfairy.com). It’s smart to have a bank card and $20-$50 in cash on hand for food, merch or drinks (there’s no onsite ATM). Northland evenings can cool off after sunset, so bring a light jacket or hoodie. If you’re sensitive to noise or have kids, consider earplugs – even though the sound is high quality, it can still be loud close-up. - Prohibited Items: Don’t try to sneak in glass bottles, loose cans, open alcohol or outside food and drink – only a sealed water bottle is allowed (www.ticketfairy.com). Weapons, sparklers, toy guns, and professional video cameras (large DSLRs or video cameras) are strictly forbidden. If you have questions about an item (for example, a selfie stick or a medical device case), it’s best to call the venue in advance. - Age Requirements: Check the event’s age limit listed on your ticket. Many 2 Garden Court shows are all-ages (with young teens brought by parents), or “15+” which means under-15s need an adult. (www.ticketfairy.com). For all-ages shows, the bar usually provides wristbands or designated areas to ensure under-18s aren’t served alcohol. Some late-night concerts and certain gigs are R18 only – in that case, everyone under 18 or without a valid ID will be turned away (www.ticketfairy.com). (The venue is strict about this, so crew will check ID carefully at the door.) - Dress Code: There’s no formal dress code – come in whatever is comfortable. Most Kiwis dress casually for concerts: think jeans, t-shirts, hoodies and sandals or sneakers. A few folks might dress up a bit on special nights, but you’ll fit right in wearing your favourite band tee or a smart-casual outfit. Just wear sensible shoes (you may be standing or dancing, and weather can mean walking on grass outside). - During the Show: Feel free to sing, clap and dance. Kiwi crowds are generally laidback and friendly. One thing to avoid is blocking other people’s view: try not to sit on shoulders or hold your phone so high that the person behind you can’t see. It’s perfectly fine to take a quick photo or short video, but don’t spend the whole song behind your screen – the artists prefer you enjoy the moment. Flash photography is not allowed, so make sure your flash is off. If someone accidentally bumps into you, a quick “kia ora” or “sorry” is all it takes – the vibe here is very communal. - After the Show: Take your time exiting. When hundreds of people leave at once, the aisle and lobby can get crowded for a few minutes. If you drove, watch for people walking on the driveway. If you’re catching a taxi or rideshare, meet at the agreed spot promptly – drivers often wait a short distance away to keep traffic moving. Please keep noise down as you leave, out of respect for nearby homes.

What is the capacity of 2 Garden Court?

2 Garden Court can hold roughly 400 people standing or about 250 if chairs are set out for seating (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). It’s a mid-sized, intimate hall – by design no matter where you stand or sit the stage is just a few dozen metres away. This smaller size means big shows often sell out early.

Where can I buy tickets for events at 2 Garden Court?

Tickets are primarily sold online through the venue’s official ticketing page or authorized sellers (www.ticketfairy.com). It’s recommended to buy early, as popular events often sell out. For big shows you may get advance emails or presale codes by signing up for the venue’s mailing list or following their social media.

Are tickets sold at the door?

If an event, especially a smaller local gig, isn’t sold out, you can sometimes buy tickets at the door with cash or card (www.ticketfairy.com). The venue operates a small box office that opens about an hour before showtime, where you can also pick up will-call tickets (www.ticketfairy.com). However, because many concerts reach capacity, the safest bet is to have your ticket before you arrive.

How much do tickets usually cost?

Ticket prices vary depending on the act. Local or community shows are often quite affordable (around NZ$15–$25). Bigger national touring acts or special events can be more expensive – often in the range of NZ$50–$100 per ticket (www.ticketfairy.com). Kid-friendly or charity events sometimes have family pricing or menu bundles. Check each event’s listing for specific pricing.

Where is 2 Garden Court located, and how do I get there?

2 Garden Court’s address is on Garden Court Drive, Haruru. It’s about 4–5 km west of central Paihia. From Paihia, drive along Puketona Road toward Haruru Falls; take the Garden Court Drive turnoff just before the Falls (www.ticketfairy.com). The drive takes 5–10 minutes. There is free on-site parking. Public buses don’t run late, so most people drive or take a taxi. The venue lies roughly 20 km south of Kerikeri Airport (around a 20-minute drive) via State Highway 10 and Puketona Road (www.ticketfairy.com).

Is parking available at 2 Garden Court?

Yes. There is a free car park right next to the building that fits a few dozen vehicles (www.ticketfairy.com). For most events, parking meets demand if you arrive a bit early. Accessible parking spots are marked by the entrance. If the lot fills up, you can park on nearby residential streets (but please do not block driveways) (www.ticketfairy.com).

Can I take public transport to 2 Garden Court?

There is very limited public transit to Haruru in the evenings. Bus routes in the Bay of Islands do not run frequently at night. The practical options are to drive, taxi or shuttle. Taxis are available from Paihia and a short ride away (www.ticketfairy.com). Rideshare (Uber) may work, but supply can be low, so it’s safest to book ahead or line up a ride in Paihia after the show.

Do I need to show ID at the entrance?

It depends on the event. If the concert or show is R18-only, you will have to show valid photo ID at the door. The venue also checks ID for patrons picking up will-call tickets in someone else’s name (www.ticketfairy.com). Even for younger teens, the show’s advertised age limit matters – often under-15s must come with an adult. Otherwise, for all-ages events you typically only need your ticket ready.

Are children allowed at 2 Garden Court events?

Many shows at 2 Garden Court are family-friendly or all-ages. Often the age policy is listed as “Special Event *Kids Welcome” or “All Ages” (www.ticketfairy.com). In those cases kids can attend (usually under-15s must be with a parent). For all-ages shows the bar may issue wristbands so under-18s aren’t served alcohol. Only events explicitly marked R18 are restricted – if it says R18 on the ticket, minors won’t be admitted (www.ticketfairy.com).

Is 2 Garden Court wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the venue was designed for accessibility. The entrance has no steps (just a flat, wide door) and the entire hall is one level, making it easy for wheelchairs to move around (www.ticketfairy.com). The restrooms include an accessible toilet with handrails. During events, staff typically reserve a flat area close to the stage for wheelchair users so they have an unobstructed view (www.ticketfairy.com). If you have specific needs, contacting the venue ahead of time will let them help arrange assistance or seating.

Is outside food or drink allowed inside?

Generally, no. Outside food and beverages are not permitted inside 2 Garden Court (www.ticketfairy.com). The only exception is a sealed water bottle for personal use. All meals and drinks should be purchased from the venue or its authorized food trucks. The idea is to keep nourishment on-site (for cleanliness and revenue) and comply with licensing.

Is there a cloakroom or coat check?

There isn’t a permanent coatroom, but yes, staff do often provide a coat check service for events. On colder or wet nights they’ll set up a temporary rack near the entrance where you can leave jackets or umbrellas for safe keeping (www.ticketfairy.com). Since storage space is limited, it’s best to keep valuables with you, but the team is generally accommodating.

What amenities are available inside 2 Garden Court?

Inside, you’ll find a full bar serving local beers, wines and soft drinks (www.ticketfairy.com). Light snacks such as chips and candy are also sold. The venue provides clean restrooms (including an accessible loo) adjacent to the lobby (www.ticketfairy.com). There is no public Wi-Fi, but mobile phone coverage is generally good inside. If artists have merchandise, a merch table is set up in the foyer or side hall.

Can I take photos or videos of the performance?

Using your smartphone for a few photos or short clips is usually okay (unless the artist specifically requests otherwise). Just keep the flash off and don’t obstruct others. The venue advises not to watch the whole show through your phone. Professional cameras or recording equipment (detachable lenses, tripods, etc.) are not allowed without prior permission (www.ticketfairy.com). If in doubt, check with staff before the show.

What time do the doors open for events?

Doors usually open about 60 minutes before the advertised showtime (www.ticketfairy.com). For example, an 8:00 PM concert will typically have doors at 7:00 PM. Occasionally a smaller event might only open 30 minutes prior, but an hour is the norm. The exact “doors open” time is often printed on your ticket, and arriving when doors open is recommended if you want to get in early.

Is smoking permitted at the venue?

No. By New Zealand law smoking and vaping are not allowed inside the building. If you need a smoke break during the show, staff will direct you to a safe outdoor smoking area just outside the doors (www.ticketfairy.com). You can step outside briefly and then re-enter (you may need a hand stamp or staff escort for re-entry). Please be considerate of neighbours and keep the door area clear for other patrons.

What should I bring to a show?

Bring your ticket and ID as mentioned, plus some cash or a debit card for drinks and snacks. A small bottle of water is fine. It’s handy to have a light jacket or hoodie, since Northland evenings can cool down. If you or your kids are sensitive to noise, consider pack small earplugs; the system is powerful close to the stage. Most importantly, bring a sense of fun – the venue’s friendly vibe means you should feel free to shout out, dance or sing along! (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com).