About Kamo Hotel
The Kamo Hotel is a historic pub, bar and motel located at 567 Kamo Road in the suburban township of Kamo, on the outskirts of Whangārei, Northland. Established in the late 1800s, the hotel was rebuilt with a brick base in 1937 during the area’s mining boom, and has since been a community hub for locals and visitors alike (northlandhistory.blogspot.com ). Today it combines old-world charm (high ceilings, wooden floors and heritage décor) with modern entertainment facilities. The venue features multiple bars under one roof – including a sports bar with gaming machines and pool tables, and a separate lounge bar with a restaurant – along with 10 motel-style guest rooms (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). With its large secure on-site car park and free Wi-Fi, it caters to families, travellers and groups. Its signature features include a fully-equipped pub kitchen/buffet, multiple TVs (SKY TV and big-screen projector) and an in-house sound system for events (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). As one of Kamo’s landmark buildings, the hotel remains an important social and cultural venue in the Northland region.
Events and Programming
Kamo Hotel has long been known for live entertainment and social events. On any given week you might find local cover bands (rock, pop, country and folk), tribute acts, or hinterland DJs playing in the evenings. The venue often hosts themed nights like karaoke and pub quizzes, open-mic jam sessions, and convivial live-music weekends, particularly on Fridays and Saturdays. In the past it has even staged major touring acts – for example, the 1970s disco group Boney M played the “Greatest Hits” tour here on 17 June 2017 (www.ticketfairy.com ). Community events such as sports club gatherings, folk music nights and charity fundraisers are also held at the hotel. Typical event fees are modest (local band nights may be free or a small cover charge, while bigger gigs usually top out around NZ$10–$15). Drinkable craft beers and pub-style meals make up much of the programming atmosphere. In short, Kamo Hotel caters to a diverse clientele with everything from family-friendly dinners to late-night dance parties, and it often appears on local event calendars during New Zealand’s spring-to-autumn season. (Note: specific upcoming events and admission prices are normally posted on local social media or at the hotel’s noticeboard well in advance.)
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Kamo Hotel events are usually sold in advance through local outlets or at the door, depending on the performance. There is no official online box office, so for larger concerts or private events it pays to check local ticket platforms or contact the venue directly (often via their phone number) earlier rather than later. Many shows simply use door sales (cash and electronic payment accepted), with some bigger acts offering presale or early-bird tickets. Popular events can sell out quickly, so the best strategy is to obtain tickets early – either by calling the hotel, following their official social media, or visiting a New Zealand ticketing kiosk. For most local band nights or quiz/entertainment evenings, walk-up tickets or payment on arrival are standard. Keep in mind that as a licensed venue, ID will be required at entry and a minimum purchase or cover charge (if any) must be paid at the bar. Essentially, plan ahead for big gigs, but for smaller events you can usually just arrive before the advertised start time and pay at the door.
Seating and Layout
The Kamo Hotel is laid out like a traditional New Zealand pub, not a seated concert hall. It has two main indoor areas: one is a casual sports bar with high-top tables and lounge seating around gaming machines and a large screen; the other is a more formal lounge bar/restaurant area with standard tables and chairs. When events or live music are on, the space in front of the stage (usually in the lounge area) is left open for standing room – guests are free to dance or move around. Seating is therefore first-come, first-served at the tables and bar stools that line the sides. There is no assigned or reserved seating, although a few high tables or booths along the back give a good view of performers. For the best view, stand near the front of the stage or projector screen, and bring ear protection if attending loud shows. The venue also has outdoor spaces (a beer garden/terrace) where people can mingle in fine weather. Acoustically, the hotel leans into its in-house PA system (which handles both music and announcements) and the brick/wood interior, so expect a lively, slightly echoey sound. In summary: layout is open-plan with a dance floor, casual seating on the periphery, and no VIP sections. Pageantry such as stage lighting is available for events, so the atmosphere feels lively and immersive rather than theatre-like.
Getting There and Parking
Located at 567 Kamo Road, the venue is right on the main East-West arterial (State Highway 1A) that runs through Kamo township. By car, it’s easy to find (just inside Whangārei’s city limits) and there is a large free car park at the back of the hotel, secured behind gates (www.mapquest.com ). This parking lot accommodates cars, vans and tour buses, so drivers can usually find space unless a major event is on. As a tip, arrive during daylight on the night of a big show – parking fills quickly once it gets late.
For public transport, Whangārei city buses (CityLink service) run regularly through Kamo. Bus routes #3/3A (Kamo–Tikipunga) and others stop near Kamo Road just a short walk away. If you’re coming from central Whangārei, the ride takes about 10–15 minutes. Once off the bus, it’s a flat 3–5 minute walk to the hotel entrance. Taxis and rideshare (e.g. Uber/Ola) can drop guests at the front sidewalk. Kamo’s layout also makes the hotel walkable from nearby eateries and motels. For those traveling from further afield: Whangārei Airport is about 14 km south (about a 20-minute drive) and Kamo Hotel is often cited on mapping apps, so GPS navigation is straightforward.
Inside the Venue
When you step inside Kamo Hotel, expect the feel of a warm local pub. The entry leads into the sports bar section, where numerous chairs and couches face a wall of large-screen SKY TV sets (showing major sports events). Pool tables and 18 slot gaming machines line the walls, and a self-service drink chiller keeps beers and mixers cold. Continuing on, you enter the lounge bar and restaurant – a wood-floored dining room with booth seating and tables, where an extensive pub-style menu is served from a fully equipped kitchen. Both sections have tiled floors, wooden trim, and classic pub lighting; memorabilia and sports photos line the walls, giving a cosy retro vibe.
Security is typical for a bar: staff at the door check age ID on big nights, and bag checks are possible. All drink and food orders are placed at the bar or restaurant counter. You’ll find a wide selection of local and international beers on tap, wines from New Zealand vineyards, standard spirits, plus soft drinks and coffee. The smoke alarm system and emergency exits are clearly marked (Kiwis’ fire-safety reg). Restrooms are located off to the sides; at least one is wheelchair-accessible. With live bands, the in-house PA and electrics (microphones, amps) are ready to go on the small stage area, and a big projector hangs from the ceiling. Free Wi-Fi is available to all guests (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ), and phone reception is generally good. Coat hooks by the door or behind the bar mean you don’t have to wrangle wet jackets – though there isn’t an official coat-check room. Merchtable space is not common, but touring bands sometimes set up a small stand near the stage. Overall, the vibe is informal and festive: expect friendly staff (flagging down bar service near your seat), pub tunes before showtime, and the clink of glasses. Newcomers often remark on the relaxed “local watering hole” atmosphere, while visitors love the mix of bar amenities under one roof (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ).
Nearby Amenities
The Kamo Hotel is surrounded by the shops and services of Kamo town. Immediately next door, you’ll find a café (for coffees and light breakfast), a bakery-patisserie, and a convenience store/general store. Within a couple of blocks there are fast-food options (e.g. fish & chips, a kebab shop and a popular Thai/Asian takeaway) and a noted Indian restaurant (Shiraz Kamo). For pre-show dining, local travellers often try the hotel’s own restaurant (which serves full pub meals), or stroll to nearby eateries like Milk & Honey Café for brunch items. Supermarkets (Countdown and New World) and liquor stores are a 5-minute drive away on Kamo Road, as are several other pubs and bars if you want a drink or two before the main event. If you need accommodation beyond Kamo Hotel’s 10 rooms, the Kamo Motel and various Whangārei motels are within about 2 km. Late-night transport options from the hotel area include city taxis and the Whangārei Uber service (though taxis are slower to come late at night), so plan ahead if staying out past midnight.
What Makes This Venue Special
Kamo Hotel stands out for its rich heritage and its blend of pub conviviality with live-entertainment flair. Architecturally, it’s a glimpse of old Northland: the current heritage facade (brick and stucco) dates to 1937, built at the height of the local coal-mining era (northlandhistory.blogspot.com ). Inside, original features like high ceilings and decorative trims contrast with modern sound lighting rigs and a projector. This juxtaposition – a “grand old dame” of a building hosting modern party nights – gives the place a unique character.
Culturally, it has long been a meeting point for the Kamo farming and mining communities (stock agents, cattle buyers, miners) and today remains a local gathering spot. Legendary moments like a packed New Year’s Eve karaoke or an All Blacks watch-party on the banks exemplify its community role. Over the decades, the hotel has hosted bands, jockeys after races, and even been a resting stop for challengers of the grueling Cape Reinga race. Many Northlanders have fond memories of bands playing there in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
For performers, the hotel’s modest-but-respectable facilities (sound system, lights, stage space) and attentive crowd make it appealing. For audiences, the laid-back bar setting and the chance to mingle with locals (students, families, club-goers) add authenticity. The walls are covered with jerseys and photos from business and sporting events, preserving local lore. All these factors – historic charm, versatile space, and its reputation for good times – contribute to why artists like to play there and why patrons love returning (northlandhistory.blogspot.com ) (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The ground floor is wheelchair-friendly (ramped entrance, wide bar area, at least one disabled toilet). If you need assistance (e.g. seating or special seating), ask staff – they are usually very accommodating (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Payments: Major credit cards and EFTPOS are accepted at the bar/restaurant, and NZ$ cash is always handy. There’s likely an ATM in or near the hotel in case you need cash. Tipping is not expected but rounding up is appreciated.
ID and Age: Bring a valid photo ID (NZ driver licence, passport, or HANZ ID). The bar licenses typically mean a person must be 18+ to drink; children may accompany adults until around 8pm but must leave or move to dining areas after that time. The venue has an 18+ event policy for most concerts and club nights.
Attire: Dress is very casual. Jeans or smart-casual shorts and shirts are fine. Avoid overly muddy or smelly outdoor gear; neat sportswear is fine. There is no formal dress code. Sturdy closed shoes are recommended if you plan to dance or walk through the grassy beer garden in winter.
What to Bring: For gigs, pack earplugs (it can get loud), some cash, and a jacket if the weather’s cool (the back outdoor area is uncovered). A small bag is fine but be prepared for possible bag checks on busy nights. Cameras or phones can be used for photos, but professional video setups should get permission first. Note: no outside alcohol or food is allowed; smoking is only permitted in designated outdoor areas. Drinking water is available; reusable bottles are okay.
Culinary Advice: The hotel’s menu serves hearty pub food (bangers & mash, steak, burgers, fish n’ chips, pizzas) as well as buffet nights on certain days. It’s advisable to eat at least something before a big event, as the pub can get busy and waits can lengthen. Many patrons also grab a snack from nearby shops or the cafe beforehand.
Common Mistakes: Don’t assume an event has free seating – big acts might charge a cover or have limited tickets. Ask at the bar which night’s main act is playing. Don’t park in reserved or disabled spots unless permitted. And try not to leave belongings unattended in the bar area. It’s also wise not to walk off with pint glasses (you might have to pay a replacement fee).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the exact address of the Kamo Hotel?
The Kamo Hotel is located at 567 Kamo Road in Whangārei (post code 0112), in the suburb of Kamo. It’s on State Highway 1A, easily visible from the road. If using GPS, entering “The Kamo Hotel Whangarei” will get you there with no trouble.
Is parking available and is it free?
Yes, the hotel provides a large on-site car park behind the building. It's free for patrons to use and accommodates cars, motorcycles and even buses (www.mapquest.com ). It’s fenced and lit at night. Just remember to vacate it in the morning (the gates close around 6pm to early morning, and an attendant may lock up when events end).
How can I get to Kamo Hotel by public transport?
CityLink buses serve Kamo Road. Bus routes #3/3A run from Whangārei CBD through Kamo. Get off at the stop near Kamo Road/King Street intersection, then it’s a 2-3 minute walk to the hotel. Taxis or rideshare (Uber) are also options. Whangārei Airport is about 14 km away, so a taxi from there takes 20–25 minutes.
What are the ticket prices for shows?
Ticket prices vary by event. Many local band nights and quiz nights are free or just a small door charge (~$2–$5). For bigger acts (tribute bands, DJs or touring groups), expect cover charges up to $10–$15 NZD. There are no fixed prices – each event is priced individually. It’s wise to check venue flyers or local listings for specific event costs.
Where can I buy tickets for Kamo Hotel events?
For many events, tickets can be purchased at the door either upon arrival or in advance at the hotel’s bar. Some larger concerts may sell promos online through local ticketing platforms – but the safest route is to contact the venue directly or check its social media. In many cases, just showing up early on the night of the event and buying at the counter is sufficient.
What is the seating capacity of Kamo Hotel?
The hotel doesn’t publicly advertise a seating capacity, but it’s a medium-sized pub. It likely holds on the order of 100–150 people in total across both bar areas. Most events use standing room and informal seating, so practical capacity depends on layout and whether extra chairs/tables are added. For private bookings, the management can advise exact numbers.
Does Kamo Hotel have reserved VIP seating?
No, Kamo Hotel operates on a first-come, first-served basis for all shows. There are no special VIP sections. Seating is casual – bar stools, tables and benches are available near walls and along the sides. If you want the best view, arrive early and stand near the stage area. Otherwise, grab any open table or seat in the lounge area when you get in.
What should I wear to Kamo Hotel events?
The dress code is very casual. Jeans, t-shirts, shorts or casual shirts are perfectly fine. Avoid anything too beachy or extremely formal – smart casual is safe if you’re unsure. The atmosphere is relaxed pub style, so most people dress comfortably. Keep in mind the venue gets warm during events, so light layers are smart.
Can I bring my own food or drinks to the hotel?
No. By law the Kamo Hotel cannot allow outside alcohol or controlled food into the bar areas. Ticket holders must purchase beverages from the hotel bars. You’re welcome to bring water or medications. Snacks or meals should be bought at local shops before entering. The hotel has an in-house kitchen and pub menu for food or drink—feel free to dine there before or during your visit.
Is there a coat check or lockers available?
No formal coat check is provided. There are coat hooks and you can leave belongings by your table, but do so at your own risk. Large bags may be searched, and you must keep your items nearby. If you have anything of value, it’s safest to keep it on you or seated at your table. In short, the venue expects patrons to manage their own coats and bags.
Does Kamo Hotel have wheelchair access and other accessible facilities?
Yes. The main floor is step-free and connected by a ramp at the entrance. There are wide doorways and at least one unisex accessible restroom. The venue staff can also arrange level seating for wheelchairs or walkers. Because accessibility is emphasized, guests with mobility needs should have no problem navigating around (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Are children allowed inside the hotel?
Children are generally welcome until the evening lans out. During daytime and early evening, families dine in the restaurant or family area. Once it gets late (usually after 8pm), it depends on the nature of the event. By law, after 8pm the premises become an 18+ licensed area if alcohol is served. So for a late-night gig, expect the bar to be adults-only with strict ID checks. Always check the event details—some special family-oriented nights may allow younger patrons earlier in the day.
Is there Wi-Fi available at Kamo Hotel?
Yes. The hotel offers free guest Wi-Fi throughout the building (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). Just ask the bar staff for the network name and password. This can be useful for checking event details or messaging friends while on-site.
How many motel rooms does Kamo Hotel have?
The Kamo Hotel has ten motel-style guest rooms attached to the pub (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). They are basic but comfortable, each with its own bathroom. You can reserve them as you would any motel (via phone or booking site). Note that these rooms fill up fast on event weekends, so book early if you want to stay on-site.
Do I need a ticket to enter if there’s no band playing?
If it’s not a ticketed event (i.e. just a normal pub night or dinner), no ticket is needed – you can simply walk in, order from the bar, and stay. Tickets only apply on nights when a concert, special function or private event is advertised. On those event nights, you must pay the cover charge or show your ticket at the door.
What are common prohibited items at Kamo Hotel?
Standard rules apply: don’t bring any outside alcohol or food, no weapons (even pocket knives or ice axes), no glass containers, and no illegal substances. Most pubs in NZ also ban personal drink coolers and large tethered balloons. If you’re unsure, ask staff or security before bringing anything unusual. In general: leave your large backpack at home and carry valuables securely.
Are pets allowed at Kamo Hotel?
Only service animals (like guide dogs) are permitted inside, as per NZ law. If you have a trained assistance dog, you can bring it but always call ahead to make arrangements. Otherwise, no pets or dogs are allowed apart from those officially providing assistance.
What payment methods does Kamo Hotel accept?
The hotel bar and restaurant accept cash and New Zealand EFTPOS/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, etc.). There is an EFTPOS machine for quick card payments. Some places in Whangārei still prefer cash, so it’s wise to have some NZ dollars on hand. Credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) are usually fine, but American Express might not be accepted at smaller counters.
Why is Kamo Hotel famous or special?
It’s famous locally for being one of the oldest pubs in the area (dating back to the 1880s) and for hosting all kinds of community events. It’s a go-to spot for watching rugby on big screens, enjoying country music nights, or just soaking up Kamo’s local culture. Many Northlanders consider it a “must-visit” venue because of its historic vibe and friendly, lively atmosphere (northlandhistory.blogspot.com ) (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ).
