About 17 Bond Street
17 Bond Street in Invercargill is a unique craft-brewery pub and live-music venue tucked into a century-old bank building. Invercargill is a city known for its strong local culture, and 17 Bond Street contributes to the scene as Gadoochi Brewing’s Southland home. The venue occupies a restored “100-year-old bank building in the centre of Invercargill” , giving it a striking historic character. The current operators – locally based brewers Chris and Nicola Holt – started making cider in 2014 and then converted this landmark bank building into an on-site café/bar with a high-tech brewery at the rear. As described on the brewery’s website, they “purchased and renovated a 100 year old bank building in the centre of Invercargill”, creating a taproom and brewing facility under one roof . This mix of old heritage architecture and modern craft brewing is what makes 17 Bond Street notable. It is one of Southland’s only genuine brewpubs: the owners produce a range of handcrafted beers and ciders on site (often using locally sourced hops and fruit), and pour them straight from taps in the bar. The venue’s motto – reflected in its branding – is about purity and passion in flavour. For example, the Gadoochi founders originally made a naturally dry apple cider “using nothing but fruit and yeast” , setting the tone for their craft approach. All of these details – the heritage building, the on-site brewery, the connection to local ingredients – give 17 Bond Street its unique identity in the Invercargill pub and music scene. It matters to locals because it combines a cosy, old-world vibe (heavy wooden décor, banking-arch features) with a lively entertainment space: customers can enjoy fresh Gadoochi beers and ciders in a piece of Southland history. In short, this corner of 17 Bond Street is not just another bar: it’s a historic venue revitalised as Invercargill’s own craft brewery and live-music hub.
Events and Programming
17 Bond Street is known for hosting live music and social events rather than theatre shows or sports. Its calendar typically features bands and concerts (especially Kiwi rock, pop and roots acts) along with occasional community parties. For example, in late 2025 the venue was booked for touring bands like Sam Cullen & His Band (supporting their album tour) www.ticketfairy.com and Falling Doves (a rock group) . These taproom concerts tend to draw a local crowd of music fans. The venue doesn’t programme performances every night, but there are regular weekend gigs and special events throughout the year. One local listing even showed an upcoming “Left or Right” event at the Gadoochi Brewery (17 Bond St) in December – indicating this spot is used for various themed raves or fundraisers when scheduled. In general, expect a range of parties and shows: original live bands, cover bands, tribute acts, perhaps a DJ night or acoustic set. There is often at least one major event each month, with tickets on sale a few weeks beforehand. Concert ticket prices vary: small local acts might have low-cost or even free entry, while headline shows might be in the $20–$40 range. (For reference, the Sam Cullen show tickets were sold via a ticket vendor.) Events are announced in advance, so fans usually keep an eye on social media or local event listings. Since the venue is run by a brewery, you’ll also see brewery events – for example, taproom ‘release parties’ for new beer launches, or open-house brew tours (often held by appointment). In short, the programming is a mix of craft-beer celebrations and live music. Recurring events might include weekly quiz or trivia nights, “open mic” nights, and special festival appearances. Most events here are 18+ due to the liquor licence. Because the venue doubles as a bar, private functions are also common – such as corporate events, birthday parties or Stag/Hen nights – usually booked in the hall or bar by advance arrangement.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for specific events at 17 Bond Street are usually sold through official ticketing channels well before each show. Local concert organisers or the venue itself will put tickets on sale via event sites and give details on the Gadoochi Brewery or “17 Bond Street” social pages. There is no box office front counter, so most ticket sales happen online (or at the door if available). For popular concerts, presale tickets often sell out, so the best strategy is to buy early as soon as a show is announced. Advance tickets frequently go on sale about 2–4 weeks before each event. At-door or door sales are sometimes offered on the night of the show if it isn’t sold out, but this is not guaranteed – especially for big acts. Ticket prices depend on the performer and event type. Smaller local band gigs or pub nights may charge a nominal cover (often under $20), whereas bigger touring acts can be $30 or more. Occasionally there are special VIP tiers offered – for instance, “meet the band” upgrades – but generally the venue is general-admission only. Note that the venue’s age restriction (18+) means tickets are sold only to adults unless otherwise specified. There is no public booking fee at a physical box office; instead, service fees from the online ticket vendor may apply. In general, if you want the surest access, keep an eye on the official event listing and grab your ticket early. If you miss the presale, arithmetic often gives door sales at first come, first served – arriving well before the advertised start time is wise for those hoping to buy at the door.
Seating and Layout
The interior of 17 Bond Street is a single large open hall. Events are almost always “general admission”, meaning there is no fixed seating plan – people stand or mill about. The space feels like a converted warehouse: there are a few high cocktail tables and stools, but most attendees gather standing. The stage is set at one end of the hall (often built on a raised platform), with the bar counter and serving area along a side wall or at the opposite end. Because of the open floor, the best spot depends on your preference. For the best view of a performance, stand centrally facing the stage, ideally a few metres back so you can see above the front crowd. Front-row positions right beside the stage give the loudest experience (great if you love the music and don’t mind noise). Some people prefer hanging near the rear by the bar where it’s slightly quieter and easier to slip out to refill drinks. The sound system covers the hall well, but peak loudness is near the stage speakers – standing too close to the PA can be ear-splitting. Acoustically, the room has hard surfaces (concrete floor, exposed walls), so applause and cheers echo pleasantly, but there is also a bit of reverb. The ceiling has exposed beams and lighting rigs; look out for low-hanging cables or fixtures if you move around in the dark. There are no stairs or balconies, so sightlines are relatively even (everyone is on one level). If the event runs a dress code or VIP section, it’s usually just an area roped off near the stage. Otherwise, everyone mixes on the floor. In short: bring comfortable footwear, prepare for a standing crowd, and choose your spot based on whether you want to dance up front or lounge at the back.
Getting There and Parking
17 Bond Street is located in Invercargill’s central area. The exact address is **17 Bond Street, Invercargill 9810, Southland, New Zealand** www.ticketfairy.com . (Note that Invercargill’s postal code 9810 covers the city centre and west side.) By car, the venue is easy to find on most GPS units. It sits just off one of the main downtown roads, so you can reach it via State Highway 1 (the Southern Scenic Route) through Invercargill. The nearest main intersection is at Bond and Spey; from there Bond Street runs east-west. Parking in the area is a mix of metred street parking and council car parks. There are several pay-and-display car parks within a few blocks (for example on Spey Street or Esk Street). On-street parking along Bond Street itself is usually paid parking ($1–$2 per hour) on weekdays until early evening; after hours parking restrictions are relaxed. During big events the nearby car parks can fill up, so plan to arrive early if driving. An additional free parking option can be the Park & Ride lots (if the event is on a weekend and the city runs that service) or nearby rear-side parking on side streets like Rees or Tweed (outside business hours).
Public transport is also an option. Invercargill has a city bus network; the closest stop is on Dee Street a block north of Bond (Route 1 or 3 buses on Dee or Kelvin Street). From there it’s a 5-minute walk down Esk or Tweed to Bond Street. (Check the InterCity Coachlines or Invercargill City Council website for updated bus routes and timetables.) Taxis and rideshares (Uber, Zoomy) regularly service this area; they will usually drop you off right at the front. There is no dedicated taxi rank at 17 Bond, but drivers often wait on nearby streets. If you’re walking from the city centre, it’s only a short stroll. In fine weather you can cross Queens Park and come via Spey Street into Bond Street in under 10 minutes.
For those flying in, Invercargill Airport is about 8km northeast; from there a taxi to town takes 10–15 minutes. Overall, Bond Street is well-connected: it’s just around the corner from Invercargill’s downtown grid, so you’ll have multiple ways to get there. It’s wise to allow extra time on busy event nights, as local traffic can back up. Look for signs directing to “Bond Street – Bar & Brewery” to help you find the entrance.
Inside the Venue
Stepping inside 17 Bond Street, you enter an intimate bar/beer-hall atmosphere. There is a single entrance (a sturdy wooden door with a bit of vintage flair). As you go through, staff at the door will usually check ID (be ready to show proof of age – the venue is licensed 18+). Once inside, you’ll find the former bank hall has been transformed into a dimly lit pub. The bar counter lies along one side, with rows of taps pouring Gadoochi’s own beers and cider, alongside a few familiar draft beers and wines. High-top tables and stools line the edges, and a small clutter of band posters and upcycled brewery signs give the place character. The ceiling is adorned with craft-brewery style lights and hanging speakers; the far end of the room holds a modest stage. Behind the bar you can often glimpse part of the stainless-steel brew kit peeking through a glass partition – it’s a working brewery after all. The feel is casual and friendly; bartenders in band T-shirts chat with customers while pulling pints of IPA, stout or cider.
Practical details: when you arrive for a gig, staff will often stamp your hand or give you a wristband to show you’re eligible to re-enter after leaving. The main restroom is off to one side (usually marked by subtle signage) and is basic but clean. There is no formal cloakroom – patrons usually keep their coats on hooks behind the bar or draped over chairs if needed. Drinks pricing is typical local pub fare; credit/debit cards are accepted at the bar, as well as cash (keep some $2 coins for parking too). As far as food goes, the venue itself generally doesn’t have a full kitchen for restaurant meals. However, there is a small menu of bar snacks (like pizzas or shared plates) often prepared on site or delivered from the connected café. This means you can usually grab a burger or pizza slice to eat, but most people either come after dinner or plan to eat elsewhere before the show.
One special feature: the venue is wrestling-friendly for tech-savvy fans. While there isn’t advertised Wi-Fi for customers, mobile reception inside is good – so you can easily check band info or arrange taxis on your phone. The sound and lighting systems are surprisingly professional for a small venue: a live show will have full PA speakers, stage spotlights and coloured gobos, and the lights are usually dimmed to create a nightclub vibe. The overall atmosphere changes with events – on a quiet night it feels like a cosy local pub (background music on and mellow conversations), but during a concert it turns into a raucous dancehall where everyone gathers on the floor. Waitstaff navigate the crowd with trays of craft beers, and though it fills up it never feels cramped thanks to the high ceiling and open plan. Lastly, there is a small merchandise/merch table near the entrance during gigs, where bands or Gadoochi sell T-shirts, CDs or branded glassware. In short, expect a friendly but bustling brewpub environment inside – whether for catching a live band or simply enjoying a pint of local beer in a historic New Zealand setting.
Nearby Amenities
Being in Invercargill’s city area, 17 Bond Street is surrounded by plenty of amenities within walking distance. For pre- or post-show food and drinks, the main streets are only a block or two away. A short stroll north on Spey Street takes you to Tay Street, where popular spots include the Batch Cafe (for brunch or coffee) and various eateries. There are also a number of casual bars and pubs within a few blocks – for example, the Cabbage Tree Tavern or Onyx cafe on Tay Street if you want to grab dinner beforehand. Across the road at Tweed Street you’ll find a convenience store and bottle shop where you can stock up (though note Invercargill’s bottle-store license means you might order ahead from the brewery itself, depending on event day). If you’re looking for more dining, try nearby Denniston Lane Lane for a takeaway meal, or head over to Dee Street for sushi and pizzas. Invercargill’s central Kirchcliff Mall and Reading Cinemas are only an 8–10 minute walk away, so movie-goers or shoppers can combine trips.
For accommodation, the nearest hotel is actually right above this venue – Tuatara Lodge (30-32 Dee Street) is a backpackers-style hotel attached to the café bar. Other options include the City Suite Hotel or Ibis Styles on Tay Street, both under a kilometre east. These are convenient for late-night events (you could even walk back to your room). For more upscale lodging, the Distinction Hotel on Tay Street provides rooms and is only a couple of blocks away by car.
When the show ends late, late-night options include returning to the bar itself for nightcaps (Gadoochi often stays open late after a big gig), or popping into one of the nearby CBD pubs – Invercargill’s taxi rank is on Don Street (past Tay Street) if you need a quick cab home. Note that public buses do not run after evening hours, so most patrons either drive, carpool or use Snapper (NZ rideshare) to get home. Overall, visiting 17 Bond Street offers quick access to Invercargill’s food scene, city-center lodging, and basic services, all within a short stroll. It’s easy to arrive a bit early and enjoy a dinner in town and still make the concert. Late-night, the area is lively and patrolled, so walking back to a nearby motel or catching a ride is hassle-free.
What Makes This Venue Special
Several things set 17 Bond Street apart from other bars in the region. First, its **architecture and history**. As noted, the building itself is nearly a century old – you can see it in the high timber ceilings, the patterned arch above what used to be a vault door, and the thick walls. It’s a genuine historic place rather than a generic modern bar. People love that the owners embraced that history rather than gutting it; the result is a space that feels both authentic and quirky (old bank fittings now serve as décor or storage). Second, its **breed of beverages**. Because it’s a brewery taproom, the beer and cider selection is always fresh and brewing-focused. Fans of craft beer appreciate having an entire venue dedicated to small-batch ales and ciders on tap. Gadoochi’s commitment to “organic, full-flavour” brewing means complimentary brew tastings and a changing lineup of house beers – a unique perk you won’t find at a standard pub. For instance, visitors often rave about specialty pours that only appear here, like single-batch hop experiments or vintage ciders. Third, its **intimate vibe**. Big concert halls can feel impersonal, but 17 Bond Street is tiny in comparison (the whole audience might only be 100–200 people). Artists and fans say this brings everyone closer together — the energy is high and personal. It’s the kind of place where the band might be just a metre away and you can have a direct conversation with the singer after the show.
Other standout points: it sits under the same roof as Tuatara Lodge (a hostel/hostel-café combination), so there’s often a cosmopolitan mix of travelers and locals. It also operates under Invercargill’s special liquor licence (licensing trust), meaning it’s one of the rare places in NZ that can sell its own beer and cider by the glass and by the case on site. That means enthusiasts can sometimes buy limited-release bottles right here, something more common in countries like the U.S. but unique in NZ outside of few breweries. Culturally, this venue has become a hub for Southland’s young crowds; for many local bands in Invercargill, playing 17 Bond Street is a rite of passage. Fans mention catching landmark performances by popular NZ artists early in their careers here.
In summary, 17 Bond Street is special because it marries heritage and craft: it’s a **historic building** reborn as a **vibrant brewery and music stage**. It doesn’t just serve beer – it showcases Invercargill’s creativity. The local community loves it because of its down-to-earth, friendly ambience, and artists love it because it’s a cosy, supportive venue. The evening sky through the old bank’s skylight, the clink of beer glasses, and the rhythm of the band all make this place feel uniquely Invercargill.
Visitor Tips and Information
When planning a visit to 17 Bond Street, keep these pointers in mind. **Accessibility:** The venue is mostly on one level with a flat entrance, so wheelchair users can typically get in easily, though there may be a small step at the door – you can call ahead if you have mobility needs. There is a toilet that can accommodate a wheelchair. There are no elevators because it’s one main floor. If in doubt, the staff are friendly and usually glad to help; a quick phone call to ask is recommended.
**What to bring:** Always bring a valid photo ID (NZ driver’s licence, passport, etc.), since staff check age. However during the day or on non-event nights, minors might be allowed to accompany families; for evening concerts it’s strictly 18+. It’s wise to carry earplugs if you’re sensitive to loud music. Wear comfortable, casual clothing; this is not a formal place (T-shirts and jeans are common). Keep your coat or extra layers with you, as the room can get warm and sweaty quickly once the band starts. Drinks and a coat can be left at stools near the bar or hung on provided hooks – but remember your belongings when you leave. Photography is usually allowed (mobile phones are fine), but avoid using flash on performers unless expressly permitted by the artist. The venue has a “no outside drinks or food” policy, so don’t sneak in outside alcohol or snacks.
**Common mistakes to avoid:** Don’t plan to arrive at the last minute on a sold-out night – events here often start on time and late arrivals may be locked out for safety or seating reasons. Also, this area of Invercargill can be windy at night, so don’t leave anything (like hats) unsecured in booths. Finally, respect the venue’s rules: they may have a bag check or pat-down on busy nights, so skip anything illegal or forbidden (no weapons, large tripods, etc.) when packing.
**Age and dress:** As mentioned, most gigs are 18+. If a show is advertised as “all ages,” children still should stay with guardians and be mindful of the dark, lively environment. There’s no official dress code beyond “be reasonable” – avoid offensive slogans if you care, but otherwise feel free to rock up in band merch or your typical nightclub gear. The crowd tends to be very casual.
**Other insider tips:** Arrive early to grab a good spot, especially for headline shows. Even if you’re not too keen on the first band, showing up 30 minutes early means you can mill around, hit the bar while quieter, and then be settled by the time the main act starts. Take advantage of any happy-hour deals on beer if you do arrive early afternoon (if there are daytime tastings or tours, they sometimes discount pints after). If you want to try Gadoochi’s craft beer to its fullest, consider ordering a sampler tray (asking staff for advice on which new ones to try). Connect with the venue on social media or by subscribing to their newsletter to get advance notice of special brewery events or guest shows. And above all, enjoy the local hospitality: in Invercargill, this pub is owned and operated by locals, so the vibe is personal. People often chat with strangers here – it’s part of the friendly charm.
With these tips, you’ll blend right in and make the most of your visit to 17 Bond Street. Whether you’re there for the tunes, the unique beers, or the historic surroundings, you’ll leave with a sense of why this small Southland venue is a favourite among both locals and visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do tickets cost for events at 17 Bond Street?
Ticket prices vary by event. Smaller local gigs or DJ nights often charge a low cover (sometimes under $10-$15). Larger concerts or touring acts might have tickets in the range of $20–$40. Generally expect most concerts to be in the couple of dozen-dollar range. Check the event listing for exact prices, as most shows post their pricing and ticket links in advance.
Where can I buy tickets and go on sale?
Tickets are typically sold through official channels announced by the venue or promoter (such as online ticketing services or social media notices). There is no box-office window. For each upcoming event, an announcement is made on the venue’s page or local event listings, and you will usually find a link to purchase online. Popular concerts might sell out quickly, so it’s best to buy in advance as soon as they go on sale. In some cases, a limited number of tickets may also be available at the door on the night of the show if the event isn’t fully sold out.
What is the seating and viewing setup at 17 Bond Street?
17 Bond Street is general-admission with an open standing floor. There are a few high-top tables and stools, but no reserved seating. For concerts, most people stand or sit informally where they like. If you want to see the stage clearly, try to stand centrally or a few rows back. To hear better, avoid standing directly next to the speakers way up front if you’re sensitive to loud sound. Because it’s one flat room with a modest stage, visibility is good across the floor. There isn’t a VIP section or balcony – the whole crowd mixes together.
What are the parking options at 17 Bond Street?
Parking is a mix of street and nearby public lots. On-street parking along Bond Street and side streets is available (pay-and-display meters apply during daytime hours). You’ll also find council car parks on Spey Street and Esk Street within a few blocks. Because events can fill up the area, arriving early to get a spot is wise. Late-night, parking on residential side streets is also possible once evening restrictions are lifted. If you’re coming from out of town, free car-parking is available next to Queens Park (a short walk north) and at other off-street city parking areas. Remember to pay meters or use the parking app if required, especially on weekday event days.
How do I get to 17 Bond Street by public transport?
Invercargill’s city buses run along main roads like Dee Street and Tay Street. The nearest bus stop to 17 Bond Street is a short walk away on Dee or Kelvin Street (a block north of Bond). From there it’s just a few minutes’ walk down Spey or Tweed to Bond Street. Check the Invercargill city bus timetable for Routes 1 or 3, which go past Kel vkin/Dee. Alternatively, many gig-goers use taxis or rideshare services (e.g. Uber, Zoomy) which can drop you off right at the front door of the venue.
Is 17 Bond Street wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the main floor and entrance of 17 Bond Street are at street level, making it mostly accessible. There is a small step at the entry and at the restroom, but otherwise all facilities (bar, stage area, toilets) are on one level. If you have specific accessibility needs (such as a larger ramp or seating assistance), it’s best to call ahead. The staff can help ensure you have access. The venue’s tight spaces during concerts may require advanced planning for space, so booking in advance if possible is recommended.
What is the capacity of 17 Bond Street?
The hall at 17 Bond Street is relatively small, accommodating roughly a couple of hundred people at a time (exact numbers depend on the event setup). This makes it an intimate venue. Because of fire-safety rules and comfort, capacity is limited – big headline shows often sell out. For most events, assume a few hundred is the maximum. Since it’s general admission, keep this in mind: popular gigs can become crowded.
What are the venue’s policies on bags, cameras, and age restrictions?
Security is generally relaxed, but the venue reserves the right to check bags for prohibited items (evidence of no weapons allowed). Small cameras/phones for personal photography are usually fine (without flash), but professional video cameras or audio recorders might require permission. The key policy is age: events here are almost always limited to those 18 and over, so bring ID. The venue enforces a ‘shirt and shoes’ rule (common in bars) – no singlets or bare feet. If in doubt, ask the door staff; most of their rules align with standard New Zealand bar licensing regulations.
Is seating available, or should I expect to stand?
Seating is very limited. The venue is mainly standing-room for events. There are a few tall stools and bar seats along the edges, but the best places to enjoy a show are standing on the dance floor itself. If you do need to sit, arrive early to grab one of the bar stools or lean against the wall. As a tip, older guests sometimes time their arrival just after the opening act to find a spot to sit since the front fills up quickly.
Does 17 Bond Street offer food or have a kitchen?
17 Bond Street itself is not a full restaurant; it’s primarily a bar and brewery. However, basic bar snacks are often available (for example, pizzas or shareable plates) through its café kitchen. The venue is connected to Tuatara Café next door, so sometimes food is brought over. In practice, many people eat dinner elsewhere and come here for drinks and music. If you do want a bite at the venue, ask the bar staff about any snack menu items they have on offer. Otherwise, nearby Dawson’s Market or Esk Street eateries provide other dining options minutes from the door.
Are tours or brewery tastings offered at 17 Bond Street?
Yes – since 17 Bond Street houses Gadoochi’s brewery, they do offer tours and tastings by appointment. You can often see brewing happening on-site (especially on weekday mornings when they make new batches). Tours usually include a walk-through of the brew equipment and a sample tasting flight of beers and ciders. These are arranged directly with the brewers (via Gadoochi’s website or contact info) and not part of general admission events. Note that tours are typically held during the day, so you would attend outside of regular music events.
Who performs here and why is it called 17 Bond Street?
The venue hosts a variety of performers – mostly New Zealand acts or local bands. The music genre leans toward rock, indie, country, and folk. Touring Kiwi artists like Sam Cullen are typical. People sometimes wonder about the address name: “17 Bond Street” literally refers to the street number of the building. It has no separate nickname; event promoters simply use the street address as the venue name. Locals often just say “Gadoochi Brewery” or “the brewbar” to mean the same place.
What beers and drinks are available?
The drinks menu is all about Gadoochi’s own craft brew and cider. Expect to find multiple rotating taps of their signature beers (like IPAs, stouts, blondes) and award-winning cider. Because they can seasonally change offerings, the tap list might include special experimental batches. In addition, they usually carry a selection of mainstream beers, wines, and NZ gins for variety. The bartenders often do flights or tasters if you want to sample a few house beers. Non-alcoholic ciders are also available since their cider is very dry. All drinks are sold by the glass or by the bottle if still available, and you can generally purchase opened growlers or 750ml bottles of their craft brew to take home (check with the bar whether any limited bottlings are on sale).
Are minors or kids allowed at 17 Bond Street?
By default, 17 Bond Street operates as an 18+ venue in the evenings, since it is a licensed bar and often has loud music. Children and teens are generally not permitted during concerts or after dark. However, the connected Tuatara Cafe (on Dee Street side) is family-friendly during daytime hours. If you’re visiting for a daytime brewery tour or private event, minors might be allowed under supervision, but always confirm with the venue first. In short, for evening shows plan on adult company only.
What time should I arrive before an event?
Doors usually open about 30–45 minutes before the advertised showtime. For a 7pm gig, expect the bar to open around 6:15–6:30pm. If you want a good spot or plan to buy on the door, aim to arrive right when doors open. This gives time to grab a drink or quick snack and settle in. If the first band is on the bill, crowds start streaming in early. Always check the event’s start time and allowance for “doors open” in the listing (they often list a door time). Rugs, extra seats and drinks go quickly, especially for sold-out shows, so arriving early enhances the experience.
Can I bring my own beer or drinks into 17 Bond Street?
No. As a licensed venue, 17 Bond Street does not allow outside alcohol or drinks. You must purchase beverages from the bar on site. The reason is licensing law: only the venue can sell and serve alcohol on its premises. Full-strength bottles or tins brought from outside will be refused, even if they’re local craft. However, patrons can buy their beer at the bar to go (subject to laws) and then enjoy it on site. In short, any drinking inside must be with drinks served by the venue.
