About The Bass Factory
The Bass Factory is an underground-style music venue in Huntly, Waikato, focused on drum & bass and electronic dance genres. Rather than a traditional concert hall, it operates as a pop-up or warehouse-style event space that capitalises on Huntly’s industrial heritage. The name itself nods to “bass” music and evokes the town’s old coal and briquette factories. A ticket listing for December 2019 calls it “The Bass Factory – Feat. NOise” in Huntly www.ticketfairy.com , confirming that it hosts all-ages dance events. These shows are promoted by local drum-&-bass crews, notably “The Drum & Bass Massive”, tapping into New Zealand’s vibrant DnB scene – a scene so strong that drum & bass is cited as one of Aotearoa’s major musical exports . In short, The Bass Factory is a niche live-music venue serving Waikato’s bass-music community, distinctive for its outsider vibe and connection to Huntly’s working-class roots.
Events and Programming
The Bass Factory primarily hosts drum & bass, dubstep and bass-heavy electronic music parties. Past events (for example, a December 2019 “Feat. NOise” party) have featured well-known DnB artists like NZ’s own N0isemaker② www.ticketfairy.com . Show lineups often mix national DJs with local talent; for instance, the Waikato-based duo TREi & Flowidus are modern drum & bass stars from this region . Events are typically high-energy late-night gigs (often starting around 9–10pm and running into the early morning), with heavy sound systems and visual lighting. The venue doesn’t put on live bands or acoustic acts – it’s focused on DJs and electronic producers. There isn’t a fixed schedule, but organizers tend to run one or two major nights a year (often timed for summer or end-of-year) and occasional smaller club nights. Because of COVID and venue secrecy, programming isn’t listed publicly far in advance; fans watch the hosts’ social media for announcements. When tickets have gone on sale, earlybird or tiered pricing is common, and door prices (if any) align with typical NZ club-event rates (often in the NZ$20–40 range). For context, larger NZ DnB festivals (like 2020’s “Welcome to the Jungle” DnB fest) promote ticket sales months ahead , and The Bass Factory likely follows a similar pattern for its shows.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for The Bass Factory concerts must be booked in advance online. The shows are not open walk-up events: past listings show that tickets were offered electronically via event ticketing outlets www.ticketfairy.com . There is no regular box office at a venue location. Fans typically follow the venue’s or promoters’ social media pages for sale dates. In practice, organizers release tickets when they announce a specific event (often a few weeks or months ahead). These tickets may sell out quickly for headline DJs, so early purchase is advised. A ticket listing for Dec 2019 shows a “Sales for this event are closed” message once tickets sold out www.ticketfairy.com , implying that events do sell out or limit capacity. There may occasionally be a small number of door sales on the night if not sold out, but one should generally assume in-demand shows will require advance booking. Pricing is usually tiered (earlybird vs. door), and standards are similar to other New Zealand club events – often around $25–$40 per ticket for a headliner night. Always check official announcements for pre-sale passwords or mailing-list offers if available.
Seating and Layout
The Bass Factory is essentially a standing-room dance venue. The event space (often a converted warehouse or open floor) is configured for general admission on a flat dance floor in front of a stage or DJ booth. There is no fixed theatre-style seating. Audiences stand or move freely while the DJs play. Booths or raised platforms may be built for the performers around one or more walls. Typical sightlines are best near the stage or along front sections of the floor, as bass speakers pump the music strongly in all directions. A few simple seats or benches might be set up around the perimeter or in a VIP corner (if offered), but these are limited. Most attendees prefer to stay on the dance floor. The room’s shape and size can vary by event – some editions of The Bass Factory have used large empty sheds, giving a wide open area for dancing. Acoustically, the sound system is heavy on low-end bass, so standing a bit back from the subwoofers can help with audio clarity. Since this is a flexible pop-up space, accessibility (ramps, accessible seating) may be minimal – attendees requiring special accommodations should contact the promoters ahead of time.
Getting There and Parking
The Bass Factory is located in Huntly, a small town about 32 km north of Hamilton. Driving is the most common way to get there: Huntly sits right on the Waikato Expressway (State Highway 1), which connects Hamilton and Auckland . From Hamilton the drive takes about 30–40 minutes; from Auckland just over an hour via the motorway. The exact event address is generally only given to ticket-holders, but once you’re near Huntly the venue is often on the outskirts or in an industrial area, so look for temporary event signage or instructions sent by the organizers. Parking is usually provided on-site or in adjacent lots/fields. In the past, nearby farmland or cleared parking areas have been used, and it is typically free (included with your ticket). You should expect to walk a short distance from the car to the entrance. Rideshare apps (like Uber or Ola) can drop off and pick up at the designated entrance point, but signal can be patchy in rural spots – have a backup plan like arranging a driver. For public transport, Huntly has a small train station on the Hamilton–Auckland line (though trains may not run late at night), and local bus routes run through town. According to Waikato District info, Huntly has a local “BUSIT!” network (internal shuttle plus Hamilton–Pukekohe/Auckland routes) . Late-night service is limited, so plan ahead (for example, coordinate a pickup or stay locally). If you arrive early, the main street (greenhills) has a small town atmosphere and you may find parking in town if needed. Just be sure to leave extra time, as event traffic can get busy on the highway exit ramp at Dudley Road.
Inside the Venue
Once inside The Bass Factory, expect a high-energy festival vibe. Entry is by scanning your eTicket and ID check (if alcohol is served, 18+ laws apply). Staff will likely do a quick bag search – only small backpacks or fanny packs are usually allowed. Personal items are often left at a minimal coat-check or radios on standby (things like large bottles, outside food/drink, or professional cameras are prohibited). The space itself will have a huge PA system and powerful subwoofers; the music can be very loud, so bringing earplugs is advisable. Strobe lighting, lasers and fog machines are common – it’s an immersive dance club atmosphere.
Security personnel are on hand for crowd safety, and there are CCTV cameras or checkpoints at doors. There will be portable toilets (or indoor restrooms if the building has facilities), usually signposted. Some events have small food or drink vendors/food trucks; others rely on attendees grabbing snacks beforehand (there’s no large concession stand inside).
Drink service depends on liquor licensing: some all-ages events run without alcohol (so anyone can attend any time), while R18 shows may have a cash bar. Regardless, rest breaks and hydration are important – queues for water stations can form. Expect pretty minimal décor (it’s gritty-industrial by design), though themed lighting and visuals often decorate the walls. Many past attendees describe the crowd as friendly and “all there for the music,” so the overall atmosphere is communal and electric. Take advantage of crowd screens or bar rails if you need space, but most people stay on the dancefloor. There is usually no free Wi-Fi, so cell coverage is your best way to communicate on site.
Nearby Amenities
Huntly is a small town, so amenities are limited but serviceable. On Main Street (Victoria St) you’ll find a few cafes, takeaway shops and pubs. For example, the Essex Arms Hotel (153 Main Street) is a classic pub with food and drinks . Other options include fish-and-chip shops, bakeries, convenience stores and a small supermarket – enough to grab last-minute snacks or petrol. For pre-show dining, local pubs (some with pokies) and a 24-hour dairy grocery can be handy. Keep in mind the event starts late, so many places close by evening; arriving earlier in the evening to eat in Huntly or Hamilton is wise if you want a proper meal. After the show, late-night pizza or burger joints (and several 24-hour dairies) can usually be found on Huntly’s outskirts or 10–20 min away on the highway (Meremere area near the North Waikato Golf Club has a service station with fast food). Lodging near Huntly itself is scarce and generally limited to small motels; many visitors instead stay in Hamilton (especially near a hotel on Te Rapa Road or the city centre) or even Auckland, then commute to events. Always ensure you have a safe ride home after being on site.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Bass Factory stands out for its raw, DIY character and connection to Huntly’s culture. Unlike corporate arenas, this is more like a free-thinking rave in a rustic Kiwi setting. The venue has an underground reputation – often the location is hidden until tickets are sold, giving the event a clandestine “secret party” feel. It’s special because it brings top-tier electronic music to a rural area; locals and tourists mingle in a way that feels more intimate than big-city shows. Historic Huntly has deep industrial roots (coal mining and an old briquette plant) , and The Bass Factory repurposes that heritage into a contemporary music scene. It’s one of the few places in the Waikato where drum-and-bass acts from around NZ (and sometimes overseas) play right in a small-town hall. Artists often mention that playing in a unique spot like Huntly’s Bass Factory gives them a thrill – the acoustics of a large empty building produce an unusually heavy bass. For audiences, it means hearing those booming low frequencies in a setting miles from the nearest big city concert. All of this – the secrecy, the thunderous sound, the sense of community and history – makes The Bass Factory more than just a venue; it’s a kind of pilgrimage site for New Zealand bass-heads and a rare cultural gem in Huntly.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Bass Factory pop-ups may fill large industrial spaces that weren’t originally built for public access. If you need wheelchair access, email the organizers beforehand – entrance ramps and nearby parking might be improvised. Watch out for uneven ground (grass or gravel outside, concrete inside). Service animals are not typical at music events, but assistance animals can be accommodated if arranged in advance. Note that nost smoking is allowed inside due to New Zealand’s smokefree laws.
What to bring: A photo ID (if you plan to drink or are 18+), cash and card for any on-site drinks/merch, and a small daypack. Earplugs are highly recommended – drum & bass is loud. Dress in layers or breathable clothing (the crowd and sound system can make the room very hot). Shoes should be comfortable and closed (dance floors get crowded). Leave prohibited items at home: no outside alcohol (licenced events won’t let you bring your own), no glass bottles, no hard weapons or illegal drugs. Personal cameras or recording equipment are usually not permitted; mobile phone photos/video might be okay but respect any “no recording” policy. Pack a snack or water bottle if you tend to need it (though water stations are usually available).
Arrival tips: Plan to arrive early enough to find parking and let any road congestion clear before the show. Check public-transport schedules: if you’re coming by bus or train, confirm that you can get back late at night (many services stop early). If driving, coordinate a pickup in advance or designate a driver, especially on busy nights. Meet-up points are useful, since phone signals on outskirts can be unreliable.
Age limits and ID: Although a Bass Factory listing was marked “All Ages” www.ticketfairy.com , individual shows may have age restrictions if alcohol is served. In New Zealand, licensed venues require patrons to be 18+ after 6pm (or accompanied by a guardian in certain areas) . Check the specific event notes: some Bass Factory nights may be R18. Whether 15+ or 18+, always carry your photo ID (NZ drivers’ licence or passport) to get in.
Etiquette: This is a late-night dance party, so respectful behaviour is key. Care for each other – these events pride themselves on friendly crowds. Save mosh-pitting for the moment of frustration and respect personal space otherwise. If you leave the area, inform friends or have a clear meetup spot. Performers often engage with the crowd, so don’t be shy to show appreciation for the DJs.
COVID-19 considerations: Currently there are no vaccine or mask mandates for most New Zealand events, but it’s wise to follow any instructions the venue posts. As always in a close-packed dance venue, good hand hygiene is important and you might choose to wear a mask or take other precautions as you see fit.
Notable mistakes to avoid: Don’t assume you can just show up at the door without a ticket – The Bass Factory events have limited capacity and usually require advance purchase. Don’t forget your ID if you plan to drink. Don’t bring large bags or prohibited items (venue staff will turn you away). And don’t underestimate the cold season: although parties are warm inside, nights in Huntly can get chilly after midnight, so having a jacket for outside is smart.
What kind of music events happen at The Bass Factory?
The Bass Factory specializes in drum & bass and electronic dance parties. Shows typically feature heavyweight D&B DJs and sound systems with booming bass. There are no live rock or comedy acts – it's purely a dance-music venue. Past events have included well-known drum & bass artists (for example, a 2019 event featured NZ DJ N0isemaker www.ticketfairy.com ), as well as local electronic lineups. These are usually late-night rave-style events.
How can I buy tickets to The Bass Factory and when do they go on sale?
Ticket sales for The Bass Factory are handled online, not in person. Organizers announce each event on social media, then sell tickets electronically (for example, a published listing will show a “Get Tickets” option www.ticketfairy.com ). Tickets usually go on sale weeks or months before the event via an official event page or promoter, and popular shows may sell out. To avoid missing out, watch the venue’s or promoter’s Facebook/Twitter/Instagram for announcements and buy early. There is typically no physical box office.
Is seating available at The Bass Factory, or is it standing only?
The shows are generally standing-room only. The Bass Factory events are designed as dance parties, so the main area is a flat floor for attendees to move around. You may find a few benches or chairs around the edges or a small VIP platform, but most guests stand or sit on the floor when needed. If you need a seat (to rest or sit out songs), look along the walls or near any raised areas. Remember that it can get crowded on the dance floor, so plan where you stand if you want a partial sitting spot.
What are the age restrictions for The Bass Factory events?
Most Bass Factory events have been advertised as “All Ages” in their ticket listings www.ticketfairy.com , meaning anyone of any age may attend. However, if alcohol is served the venue must follow NZ law: under-18s must either not enter or be accompanied by a guardian in certain areas , and you must be 18+ to buy alcohol. To be safe, check the specific event notice. Always carry photo ID, especially if you plan to drink (and if you look near 18, you will need ID regardless). If a night is explicitly R18, no one under 18 is permitted at all.
Where exactly is The Bass Factory located?
The Bass Factory events take place in Huntly, Waikato, but the exact address is typically kept secret until after you buy a ticket. Past flyers and listings simply gave the location as “Undisclosed Location, Huntly” www.ticketfairy.com . In practice, once you purchase tickets you are provided with the precise venue (usually an industrial building or large shed on Huntly’s outskirts). Don’t expect a sign on the street – look for emails or text messages from the organizers with directions once you’ve paid.
What parking options are there near The Bass Factory?
When attending The Bass Factory, expect that parking will be arranged on or near the event site. Usually, organizers clear out adjacent fields or lots for free parking, included with your ticket. You may have to walk a few minutes from the lot to the entrance. In Huntly itself there are street parking and small carparks, but these are more useful for short-term or downtown parking. If coming by car, use the directions given to attendees – they often point you to a farm track or vacant lot. It’s a good idea to carpool with friends or come early, as parking spots can fill up for big nights. Always follow any parking attendants’ instructions on the night.
Can I take public transport to The Bass Factory?
Huntly has basic public transport links. There is a train station on the Hamilton–Auckland line (Huntly Railway Station) and local BUSIT! buses, including a Hamilton–Huntly–Pukekohe route . However, late-night service is very limited. If you plan to use public transit, check the timetables in advance: trains and buses will not run back to the city late at night. A common approach is to take an earlier train or bus to Huntly, then walk or grab a taxi/Uber from town to the venue entrance (about 5–10 min away). Alternatively, line up a pickup from friends. In short, public transit can get you to Huntly, but you will probably need a car or rideshare for the final leg home after the event.
Are there food and drink options inside The Bass Factory?
Food and drink at The Bass Factory events is usually quite basic. Many drum & bass parties set up a small takeaway stall or food truck (e.g. selling chips, burgers or pizza) so you can get a snack or meal inside. There’s often a water station where you can fill cups – remember to stay hydrated! As for drinks, if the event is licensed you’ll find a cash bar serving beer, wine and soft drinks. If it’s an all-ages show with no alcohol sold, you won’t have a bar. Otherwise expect a simple bar setup. There generally isn’t a full restaurant; for proper dining you’d need to go to town beforehand. Cash and card are usually accepted for food/bev, but having some cash can speed up a purchase because of long lines at peak times.
Can I bring a camera or recording gear into The Bass Factory?
Generally, professional cameras and recording equipment are not allowed at these events. Flash photography can also be prohibited because it disrupts the laser shows. You may use a phone or small point-and-shoot camera for personal photos (check the event’s specific rules), but many patrons DJs prefer photos to be for personal memories only – never for commercial use or sale without permission. Always ask security at the door; if they don’t explicitly allow cameras, it’s safer to leave them in your car or hotel. The focus at The Bass Factory is on the live experience, not filming it.
Is The Bass Factory wheelchair accessible?
Because The Bass Factory operates in varied spaces, wheelchair access can be inconsistent. Some editions have taken place in buildings with ramps and flat floors, while others have been in raw industrial sheds which may have steps or uneven ground. If you require accessible entry or seating, the best approach is to contact the event organizers before the show. They may set aside an easier entrance or clear path, but this is not guaranteed. Given the informal nature of the venue, plan ahead (for instance, bring a supporter who can help with any stairs) and ask for assistance on arrival. The organizers are generally eager to accommodate where possible, but the site layout may pose challenges.
What is the capacity of The Bass Factory?
There is no fixed capacity like a standard theatre, since The Bass Factory events use different-sized spaces. However, based on past shows, capacity is often in the low hundreds (for example, 200–400 people). This is significantly smaller than big-city clubs or festivals. The space may hold more if it’s a very large garage or warehouse, but promoters typically limit tickets to ensure safety and comfort. If you see a ticket listing selling out, it means they've hit whichever crowd limit they've set for fire regulations. The important thing is that tickets go quickly – if it’s marked “sold out,” it’s because the safe attendee count has been reached.
What time do shows at The Bass Factory usually start and end?
Doors typically open late in the evening (often around 9pm), with the main performances getting underway soon after. Headliner DJ sets might not begin until 11pm or midnight. These are all-night affairs that can run until 3am or later (some dancers stay until eve-of-morning). In other words, be prepared for a late night. Check the ticket or event page for exact times, but plan to arrive early in case of queues. Also plan your ride home well after midnight – local transport may not run that late.
Are there restrooms and merchandise stands at The Bass Factory?
Yes, basic facilities are provided. Most events will have portable toilets (porta-loos) or use the building’s restrooms if available. Arrive early to avoid long bathroom lines. Merchandise tables (selling T-shirts, CDs or stickers of the DJs or parties) sometimes appear, especially at larger shows. Check the front area near the bar or entrance – that’s a common spot for merch and information booths. Items like earplugs, stickers, or water are the usual fare. Don’t expect a full retail shop, but you might find commemorative items related to the event or DJ lineup.
What kinds of artists perform at The Bass Factory?
Performers at The Bass Factory are primarily DJs and producers in the drum & bass, dubstep, or similar electronic bass genres. Many are from New Zealand’s scene (Waikato and Auckland-based artists like TREi or local DJ crews) and sometimes guest headliners from overseas. The 2019 “Feat. NOise” event featured an act called N0isemaker www.ticketfairy.com . In general, expect artists who are known in NZ’s underground D&B circuit. It’s unlikely you’ll see pop-stars or rock bands – the lineup stays purely in electronic dance territory.
Am I allowed to smoke or vape inside The Bass Factory?
No – The Bass Factory is an indoor music venue, so it follows New Zealand’s strict no-smoking laws. That means no smoking or vaping inside the building at all. Designated smoking or vaping areas (if any) will be outside the main entrance, so step outside the venue confines if you need to smoke a cigarette or vape. Do not bring lighters or matches into the show if possible, and use the exit for smoking too (security may check you before re-entry). Always be respectful of this rule, as it’s legally enforced.
Should I bring earplugs to The Bass Factory concerts?
Definitely. The Bass Factory’s sound system is extremely loud – it’s part of the bass-music experience. To protect your hearing and stay more comfortable for the whole night, bring foam earplugs. They’re inexpensive and can be found at any pharmacy. Use them especially if you plan to stand right by the speakers. Many local fans rate the sound quality better with ear protection, as you can still feel the bass without the risk of ringing ears later. The venue may even sell simple earplugs if you forget.
Where can I stay if I’m coming from out of town?
Huntly has very few hotels or motels. Visitors often stay in Hamilton (about 30 km south) where there are many accommodations (guesthouses, motels, chain hotels). Some may also look around nearby towns like Ngāruawāhia or Taupiri. If you prefer to stay in Huntly itself, look for small motels or Airbnbs in the district, but book early since they fill up. A good strategy is to arrive late for the show from Hamilton and then sleep in Hamilton or on the Waikato Expressway route home. Always plan your ride back if you’re drinking.
Does The Bass Factory host events regularly?
The Bass Factory is not a nightly venue; it runs special events only. Usually, there are a few (often one or two) big parties per year. For example, one was held in late 2019. These events may become annual if demand is high. Smaller or related events (under affiliated names like the promoters’ other brands) might happen more often, but “The Bass Factory” itself pops up occasionally. To know the schedule, watch the promoters’ announcements – they typically frame it as a special series rather than a weekly club night.
Who runs and operates The Bass Factory?
The Bass Factory events are organized by local drum & bass promoters. A December 2019 poster credits “The Drum & Bass Massive” crew (often in association with another collective called Forever Elevate) as the presenters www.ticketfairy.com . In practice, independent event promoters in the Waikato run these shows. They handle booking DJs, securing the space, and ticketing. There isn’t a corporate owner; it’s more a community-driven DIY project. If you need to contact them, watch the event’s social media pages or ticket listing for an email or link to the promoters’ messaging channel (many NZ event promoters use Facebook or Instagram to communicate).
