Events at 2 Garden Court, Haruru

About 2 Garden Court

2 Garden Court is a multi-purpose event venue in Haruru, Northland, New Zealand. It can host around 400 people standing (or about 250 seated), making it a key cultural hub for the Bay of Islands region. Since opening in 2020, this venue has become a beloved spot for live music, community gatherings, and celebrations.

What makes 2 Garden Court unique is its setting and design. The venue sits just minutes from Haruru Falls and the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds, surrounded by lush greenery. Its architecture blends modern amenities with natural materials – large windows, native timber, and an indoor-outdoor layout that takes advantage of Northland’s pleasant weather. The result is an intimate, welcoming atmosphere where both locals and visitors can enjoy performances in a setting that reflects the region’s beauty and hospitality.

Events and Programming

The calendar at 2 Garden Court is filled with diverse events. Live concerts are a mainstay – expect everything from local bands and Māori cultural performances to well-known Kiwi artists. In fact, notable groups like The Black Seeds and Fat Freddy’s Drop have played on this stage, alongside emerging Northland talent and popular DJs. The venue’s size fosters a personal connection at shows, with crowds often singing along and interacting with performers.

Beyond concerts, 2 Garden Court hosts comedy nights, dance parties, community festivals, and even occasional theater or film screenings. During the summer, an annual outdoor music series takes advantage of the warm evenings, and around Waitangi Day there are often special cultural events. Most concerts happen on weekends or evenings, with frequency increasing in peak summer season. Ticket prices vary – local shows might be around $20, while bigger touring acts can range from $50 to $100. Thanks to this varied programming, there’s always something happening to draw in music lovers and families alike.

Tickets and Booking

You can buy tickets for 2 Garden Court events online through the venue’s official ticketing platform or authorized sellers. It’s recommended to purchase in advance, especially for popular shows, because the intimate capacity means events can sell out fast. Keep an eye on announcements – tickets usually go on sale a few weeks to a couple of months before a show. For highly anticipated concerts, joining the venue’s mailing list or social media pages is a smart move so you don’t miss presale notices or updates.

On the day of an event, the venue operates a small box office at the entrance. If you need to pick up tickets (will-call) or buy last-minute tickets (if available), you can do so when doors open (about an hour before showtime). Be sure to bring a valid photo ID, especially if tickets are under your name or if the event has age restrictions. Payment at the door or bar is convenient – they accept cash, EFTPOS, and credit cards. For any big show, though, securing your ticket beforehand is the best way to guarantee entry and save time. In case an event is canceled or postponed, the venue or ticket issuer will notify ticket holders with refund or reschedule options, so keep your contact info up to date when booking.

Seating and Layout

2 Garden Court’s layout is highly adaptable to each event. There are no permanent fixed seats, so for most standing-room concerts it’s an open floor. Fans can get right up close to the stage or hang back as they prefer. Because the venue isn’t huge, even the back of the room offers a clear view and excellent sound. For shows that require seating (like a comedy act or an acoustic night), chairs or tables are arranged on the floor. In a seated setup the capacity is smaller (around 200–250 people), but every seat generally has a good sightline because the space is unobstructed and the stage is slightly raised.

The atmosphere feels intimate wherever you stand or sit. If you’re looking for the best acoustics, the middle of the room (near the sound mixing desk) is a sweet spot. If you want the most energetic experience, nothing beats being right up front by the stage. Some events offer a VIP or reserved section – usually a designated area with a prime view or extra space – but otherwise it’s first-come, first-served for where you stand. There aren’t troublesome columns or barriers to worry about, and the professional sound system fills the room evenly. In short, 2 Garden Court’s flexible layout ensures you’re never far from the action and can enjoy the performance from virtually anywhere in the venue.

Getting There and Parking

Location: 2 Garden Court is in Haruru, a small locality just 4–5 km inland from Paihia (the main town in the Bay of Islands). By car, it’s about a 5–10 minute drive from central Paihia. The venue is tucked in a quiet cul-de-sac not far from Haruru Falls. If you’re driving from Paihia, take Puketona Road toward Haruru – Garden Court will be a turn-off near the falls area. From Kerikeri (which has the nearest airport), it’s roughly a 20-minute drive south to the venue.

Parking: The venue provides an on-site parking area free of charge for attendees. There’s space for a few dozen cars right next to 2 Garden Court. On most nights this is plenty, but for very popular shows the lot can fill up. It’s a good idea to arrive early if you want a spot in the main parking area. If on-site parking is full, you’ll find free parking along the surrounding residential streets – just be courteous and avoid blocking driveways. There are also marked accessible parking spots close to the entrance for those with disability permits, ensuring easy access for wheelchair users or anyone needing closer parking.

Public Transport & Rideshare: Public transit in this area is limited. There isn’t a regular bus service running late at night between Paihia and Haruru, so it’s not something to rely on for an evening event. If you don’t have a car, the best approach is to use a taxi or arrange a shuttle. Taxis are readily available in Paihia and the ride to 2 Garden Court is short (just a few minutes). It’s wise to book your return taxi in advance, especially after a concert when demand might be high. Rideshare services like Uber may operate in the Bay of Islands, but cars can be sparse; you might find one to bring you out to the venue, but getting one for the trip back could be challenging late at night. If someone is dropping you off, there’s a small area by the entrance where cars can pull over briefly. Overall, most visitors drive or coordinate rides due to the limited public transport, so plan accordingly.

Inside the Venue

Entry & Security: When you arrive at 2 Garden Court, friendly staff and clear signage will guide you to the entrance. Security personnel conduct a quick bag check and ticket scan at the door for everyone’s safety. This usually takes just a moment – they’re checking for obvious prohibited items like outside alcohol, weapons, or large professional cameras. The process is efficient and welcoming, reflecting the relaxed Kiwi vibe. If the event is restricted (for example, R18), IDs will be checked at the entrance as well. Once you’re through, you’ll find yourself in a cozy lobby area leading into the main hall.

Venue Amenities: Inside, the atmosphere is intimate and community-oriented. A full-service bar is available, typically along one side of the hall or in the lobby, offering New Zealand beers, wines, and non-alcoholic drinks. You can also grab light snacks – things like crisps, candy, or nuts – at the bar. For bigger events or festivals, you might find food trucks or food stalls set up just outside in the garden courtyard, so you can enjoy something more substantial (like a burger or tacos) during intermission or before the headliner. Restrooms are located conveniently (usually off to the side of the main room or near the entrance) and are kept clean; there is an accessible toilet as well for those who need it. While there isn’t a permanent cloakroom, on cold or rainy nights the staff often set up a coat check area where you can leave jackets or umbrellas. If the band has merchandise for sale, a merch table is usually in the lobby area – a great chance to pick up a t-shirt or album and sometimes even chat with the artists after the show. As for connectivity, cell phone reception is generally good inside the venue, though once the music starts, most people are focused on the performance. Smoking and vaping are not allowed inside (as per NZ law); however, a designated outdoor smoking area is provided – ask staff for the re-entry procedure if you need to step out for a smoke. All in all, 2 Garden Court is easy to navigate and offers all the essentials you need inside, allowing you to settle in and enjoy the show.

Nearby Amenities

Haruru itself is a quiet, mostly residential area, so for dining and entertainment before or after an event, most people head to Paihia. Paihia (just a 5-minute drive away) has a wide selection of restaurants, cafés, and bars to choose from. If you want dinner before a show, you can find everything from casual takeaways (fish and chips, pizza, etc.) to sit-down restaurants serving local seafood and international cuisine. Many visitors enjoy eating by the Paihia waterfront for the beautiful bay views. After the event, a few Paihia pubs or bars might still be open for a late-night drink or dessert – especially on summer weekends – but keep in mind Paihia is a relaxed town, and things start to quiet down by around midnight.

In terms of accommodation, there are a couple of places very close to 2 Garden Court in Haruru (such as a riverside motel and a holiday park) which are within walking distance or a quick taxi ride. For a greater variety of lodging, Paihia and the neighboring Waitangi area offer everything from budget hostels to luxury resorts. Given the short distance, staying in Paihia is convenient even if you’re attending a show in Haruru – the drive or taxi ride is only a few minutes. It’s a good idea to book accommodation in advance during peak season or if a big event is happening, as the Bay of Islands can be busy. Finally, if you have time during the day, consider exploring some nearby attractions: the Haruru Falls walking trail is literally down the road from the venue, and the famous Waitangi Treaty Grounds (a cornerstone of New Zealand history) are just a short drive away. These spots are great to visit and really add to the cultural experience of coming out to Haruru for an event.

What Makes This Venue Special

2 Garden Court offers an experience that’s hard to find elsewhere. A big part of its charm is the natural setting – the venue is nestled near native bush and the Haruru River, giving events a scenic, almost magical backdrop. On a clear evening you might step outside during a show and see the sky full of stars, or even hear the gentle rumble of Haruru Falls in the distance. Few music venues can claim that kind of environment. The building itself complements the scenery with a stylish yet down-to-earth design. Large doors can be opened to blend the indoor stage with an outdoor courtyard, so on warm nights the concert can spill outside. Those indoor-outdoor shows have become a signature of 2 Garden Court, creating a vibe where live music and nature mingle – it’s something performers and audiences both rave about.

Another aspect that makes 2 Garden Court special is the community and culture it embodies. Since its opening, it has quickly become a gathering place for the Far North community. It’s not just a venue where shows happen – it’s where friends meet up, local talent gets discovered, and cultural traditions are showcased. The venue has welcomed everything from rock concerts to traditional Māori kapa haka performances, treating each with equal importance. There’s a real inclusive spirit; you’ll often find local iwi (tribal) elders attending events or giving a welcome, and families coming out to support young performers. The staff add to this atmosphere by being genuinely welcoming and treating visitors like neighbors. Artists who play here often comment on how enthusiastic and warm the crowd is – many say it feels like performing for a big family. Word has spread in the music community that this “hidden gem” venue is a must-visit when touring New Zealand, because of the personal connection and hospitality they experience.

In just a few years, 2 Garden Court has made a noticeable cultural and economic impact on Haruru and nearby towns. It attracts visitors who then dine in local restaurants, stay in local accommodations, and explore local sights, which helps the community thrive. Culturally, it provides a stage for Northland that wasn’t there before – now there’s a place for local festivals, charity events, and school productions, as well as international acts. The venue has already been home to some legendary moments: from impromptu jam sessions where multiple artists joined together on stage, to emotional encore performances that had the whole crowd singing. Each event adds to the venue’s growing story. All these factors – the beautiful location, the indoor-outdoor design, the community vibe, and the history in the making – combine to make 2 Garden Court a truly special place. Both artists and audiences come away feeling like they’ve been part of something unique whenever they spend an evening here.

Visitor Tips and Information

• Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair-friendly, with flat entrances, ramp access, and an accessible restroom. If you have special mobility or hearing needs, you can contact 2 Garden Court ahead of time – the staff will assist with reserved spots (for clear views) or early entry if needed.
• Arrive Early: Plan to get there when doors open (usually about an hour before showtime). This gives you time to park, go through security, and find a good spot inside. Popular shows can have lines forming at the entrance, so arriving early ensures you won’t miss the opening act and can settle in comfortably.
• Tickets & ID: Have your ticket ready on your phone (or printed out) and bring a valid photo ID. If an event is R18 (adults only) or if you intend to purchase alcoholic drinks, security will check your ID at the door. It’s also useful in case you need to verify your ticket booking name at will-call.
• What to Bring: Carry only the essentials – your ticket, ID, and a payment card or some cash. It’s smart to bring a light jacket or hoodie because Northland evenings can get cool, and you might spend some time outside between sets. If you’re sensitive to loud music, consider bringing earplugs; the sound system is great but concerts can be loud up close. An empty water bottle can be handy too – you can usually fill it at the bar with water for free.
• Prohibited Items: Don’t bring large bags or backpacks (they likely won’t be allowed in). Outside food and beverages aren’t permitted, aside from a sealed water bottle. Obviously, weapons or anything dangerous are forbidden. Also avoid bringing professional camera gear or recording devices unless you have permission. The idea is to keep everyone safe and focused on having a good time without distractions.
• Age Restrictions: Check the event details to know the age policy. Many shows at 2 Garden Court are all-ages or 15+ (meaning under 15 should come with an adult). All-ages shows will mark under-18s with a wristband to ensure they don’t buy alcohol. Some late-night gigs or certain concerts are R18 only, which means no one under 18 is admitted. If you do bring younger fans to a show, consider ear protection for kids, and know that the atmosphere is generally family-friendly unless advertised otherwise.
• Dress Code: There’s no strict dress code – casual and comfortable is the norm. Most people wear jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers, though some folks might dress up a little for a night out. The key is to dress comfortably (and maybe carry a rain jacket or warm layer if the forecast calls for it), since you might be standing for a while and could step outdoors during the event.
• During the Show: Once the music starts, enjoy yourself and be mindful of those around you. It’s totally fine to sing along, cheer loudly, and dance – the performers love an energetic crowd. Just be considerate: for example, try not to block someone’s view by holding up large signs or your phone for too long, and if you accidentally bump into someone, a quick apology goes a long way. The vibe at 2 Garden Court is friendly, so crowd issues are rare. Everyone’s there to have fun.
• Photography: Using your phone for a few photos or a short video is usually okay (unless the artist specifically asks for no filming). Just remember to turn off your flash. It’s best to take a couple of pictures and then enjoy the show in real time rather than watching it through your screen. Professional cameras (with detachable lenses) and video equipment aren’t allowed without prior approval, so leave those at home. Security may ask you to put away any camera that looks too pro.
• Exiting & Transportation: After the show ends, give yourself a few extra minutes to exit and leave the area. With a few hundred people all departing at once, there can be a minor bottleneck at the door and in the parking area. Be patient – it moves along pretty quickly. If you called a taxi or rideshare, the pickup point might be slightly away from the exit to avoid the crowd; check with the driver if they have a preferred spot. And as you head out, please keep noise to a minimum in the neighborhood – it’s late and residents will appreciate it. If you drove, take your time pulling out onto the road, as there will be both cars and pedestrians leaving the venue. Planning your ride home in advance (designated driver, scheduled taxi, etc.) is the best way to cap off a great night smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions