About Rocksalt Bar and Restaurant
Rocksalt Bar and Restaurant (often styled as Rock Salt) is a popular bar, grill and live-music venue located at 1 Cobham Road (corner Kerikeri Road) in the heart of Kerikeri, Bay of Islands (rock-salt.co.nz ). Open daily from 10:00 AM (rock-salt.co.nz ), it features a relaxed, stylish interior with hardwood floors, leather couches and even a roaring fireplace in winter (rock-salt.co.nz ) (rock-salt.co.nz ). The venue offers both indoor dining and covered outdoor seating along the street front. A unique draw is its stone-grill dining experience (guests cook steaks and seafood on heated volcanic stones), advertised as “a unique dining experience” at Rocksalt (rock-salt.co.nz ). Overall, Rocksalt is known as Kerikeri’s central hub for good food, drinks and entertainment (rock-salt.co.nz ).
Rocksalt functions as more than a restaurant – it’s one of Kerikeri’s few late‐night music and event venues. Owner-operated and catering to locals and tourists alike, the bar is often described as a comfortable space ideal for gatherings with friends over dinner or drinks (rock-salt.co.nz ). Details like plentiful TV screens (for sports and events) and a full bar with craft beers and cocktails (notably $13 cocktail specials on Saturdays (rock-salt.co.nz )) give it a friendly, Kiwi pub atmosphere. The establishment even warmed local news in 2018 when the High Court noted that “music had been] a reason for customers’ attendance over a significant period” at this venue ([www.onemusicnz.com ) – proof of how central live music is to its identity. In short, Rocksalt matters to the community as a key social and nightlife spot in the Bay of Islands.
Events and Programming
Rocksalt offers a busy calendar of live entertainment and weekly themed nights. Every Wednesday is “Quiz Night”, with trivia competitions and prizes for local teams (rock-salt.co.nz ). Thursdays and Fridays feature happy-hour deals on tap beer and wine (rock-salt.co.nz ), while regular Friday and Saturday evenings bring live music and DJs. In fact, weekend nights regularly spotlight New Zealand artists and touring acts. For example, Kiwi rock band Blindspott performed their full debut album on stage here in March 2020 (www.eventfinda.co.nz ), and metal/DJ events like “Nightmare on A.Street” (Halloween 2024) have packed the dance floor (www.ticketfairy.com ). Drum-and-bass DJs are another fixture – in December 2023 the Drum & Bass duo Latte & Toxinate co-headlined an XXL club night at Rocksalt, drawing fans from around the region (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Beyond big-name shows, Saturdays always feature live bands (often local rock, reggae, or cover bands) along with food and $13 cocktail specials (rock-salt.co.nz ). The Sunday afternoon 'kids eat free' deal (with an adult meal) makes it a family-friendly option on weekends (rock-salt.co.nz ). The venue occasionally hosts dance acts and comedy shows as well – a 2018 profile noted Rocksalt is “a great place to come for live music and other events like comedy acts and dance groups” (rock-salt.co.nz ). And once or twice a year the pub even turns into a mini-festival stage: for example, a planned one-night “KeriFest” event in late 2025 will feature 8+ local bands and DJs across 8 hours of music (www.ticketfairy.com ), essentially “turning Rocksalt into a mini-festival for one night”.
Through all this activity, Rocksalt has become a key stage on the Bay of Islands music circuit. Artists range from local rock/reggae groups and solo singer-songwriters to touring tribute bands and electronic music acts. Charity fundraisers or themed nights (for instance, “Ladies’ Night” or holiday festivities) are also held periodically. In sum, visitors can expect a lively schedule: quiz nights midweek, live bands and DJs most weekends, and special concerts or parties several times a month.
Tickets and Booking
Admission to Rocksalt is free for casual dining and bar entry, but concerts and club nights usually require tickets. Tickets are typically sold online well in advance of shows, often through nationwide New Zealand event portals or the venue’s own page. For example, tickets for the March 2020 Blindspott concert were available via an NZ event site, priced around NZ$51 for early-bird folding in fees and NZ$61 for general admission (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Smaller DJ or local band shows may be $20–30AUD at the door, whereas big touring acts or festivals run $50–70. (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Sales for popular events can start weeks or months before, so it pays to follow Rocksalt’s announcements or sign up for newsletters. There is no physical ticket office on site, but patrons can often call the bar’s number to ask about ticket sales or guestlists.
For sold-out shows, entry is usually passed. So it’s wise to book early. Rocksalt sometimes offers a limited “earlybird” price tier for big gigs. Once a show is announced, online ticket sites and social media (and local event calendars) will list the on-sale date and prices. Note that special events often are age-restricted (typically 18+) due to liquor licensing (www.ticketfairy.com ). When purchasing, expect to pay an added service fee by ticket vendors. If you’re not sure of prices or sales, phone inquiries to the venue or checking a local radio/event bulletin are reliable strategies.
Seating and Layout
The layout at Rocksalt feels like a spacious pub with multiple seating zones. As you enter, there’s a main bar area with stools and high tables, backed by an open dining section. The center of the room – where bands set up – is generally open for standing crowds during shows. Tables and booths line the sides and back of the venue, offering seated dining spots. On nice days, the covered patio along Cobham Road provides additional table seating with views of the street. For concerts or DJ nights, most people gather up front near the stage and speakers, while bar-high tables along the walls serve as quieter vantage points. There are no fixed rows like a theatre; it’s mostly general admission floor standing, so for the best view of performers it’s wise to arrive early and claim spots in front. In dining mode, table service is available, whereas on busy event nights you’d usually order at the bar. The back of the venue also includes private lounge spaces (with leather couches and pool tables) that can be reserved for functions (rock-salt.co.nz ).
Acoustically, Rocksalt is typical of a medium-sized pub: sound carries well but is not stadium‐level loud. The ceiling is relatively high, so music from bands or DJs is clear up front; however, expect amplified sound if you’re on the dance floor. Outside seating hears less bass and is a good spot to chat if the music is thumping. There are many TV screens on walls (audience reviews have noted “too many TVs on the wall” in past), which are great for sports nights but can distract from live shows if they are on. For the best audio‐visual experience, standing near the center of the room facing the stage will give full sightlines and balanced sound. Avoid spots tucked behind big pillars or right next to speakers if you're sensitive to volume. Generally, seating is all unreserved first-come, first-serve, so booking a table for dinner is recommended on busy nights if you want seats.
Getting There and Parking
Rocksalt’s address is 1 Cobham Road (the corner of Kerikeri Road and Cobham Road) in downtown Kerikeri (rock-salt.co.nz ). This central location is easy to reach by car. If driving, you’ll find on-street parking nearby and a council-run car park on Cobham Road a short walk away (www.fndc.govt.nz ). During daytime hours there is ample free street parking along Kerikeri Road and adjacent streets. In busy evening hours or weekends, those spots can fill quickly, so allow extra time to find a space or use the Cobham Road car park. Taxis and ride-share services (Uber, Ola, etc.) are readily available in Kerikeri; you can be dropped off right at the door on Cobham Road.
Public transport to Kerikeri is limited, but long-distance coaches (InterCity buses) run to Kerikeri from Auckland, Whangārei and Paihia. The main Kerikeri bus stop is on Cobham Road near the town centre (infocouncil.fndc.govt.nz ). When you alight at the Kerikeri stop, Rocksalt is only a couple of minutes’ walk. There is no local city bus beyond regional coaches, so most visitors get around by car or taxi. If you’re coming from Kerikeri Airport (about a 5-minute drive away), the easiest way is by rental car or taxi. Kerikeri’s town centre itself is quite walkable; if you’re already staying nearby, Rocksalt is at the heart of town and easy to walk to from shopping areas. Just note that on weekends, the main roads (Cobham/Kerikeri Rd) can be busy, so give yourself a few extra minutes to navigate traffic or find parking.
Inside the Venue
When you step inside Rocksalt, expect a casual pub vibe with a friendly staff greeting. There is no formal cloakroom – you’ll carry small bags and jackets with you or hang them on chair backs. During larger events the bar may set up temporary coat racks or security lines at the entrance. Keep your ID handy: doors often check age, especially on Friday/Saturday nights (events are commonly 18+) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Security is generally minimal; they may do a quick bag check on big nights. The atmosphere is relaxed: table service obscures a typical restaurant style at dining times, while DJ nights feel more like a nightclub with dimmed lights and people dancing. Live band nights fall in between, with spotlights on the performers.
Food and drink service is a highlight. There’s a full service kitchen and booth/bar dining, offering everything from pub classics (burgers, fish & chips) to the unique stone-grill cooking. The “stonegrill” menu lets you cook meat and seafood right at your table on a special hot stone (rock-salt.co.nz ). To drink, there’s a wide selection of beers (local craft and tap Lager/IPA), wines, spirits and the ever-popular Heineken on tap (rock-salt.co.nz ) (rock-salt.co.nz ). Notably, Thursday happy hour pours house beer, and Friday pours house wine, early evening (rock-salt.co.nz ). For entertainment, you’ll see a row of TVs (often tuned to sports) and maybe a pool table toward the rear. If band T-shirts or event flyers are available for sale during a show, they’ll usually be set up at the bar or a side table. After your meal or during set changes, you can wander outside to the sidewalk seating for fresh air (smoking is only outside). Restrooms (including an accessible WC) are located along the back – one user review even noted they were dire, so it might not hurt to visit before the crowds come in!
Connectivity-wise, there isn’t a public Wi-Fi advertised (typical for pubs), but cell reception is usually good inside. Credit cards and cash are accepted at the bar. Tips are not expected in Kiwi culture, but appreciated for outstanding service. If you’ve got any questions (menu, drink specials, the band lineup), staff are generally helpful, though some reviews mention service can be hit-or-miss when busy. Feel free to ask about the kitchen’s closing time – note that the kitchen does shut around 10pm on weeknights, so food orders are done by then, even though the bar stays open later (until 1am on Fri/Sat (www.tripadvisor.co.nz )).
Nearby Amenities
Because Rocksalt sits right in Kerikeri’s town centre, you have an array of cafes, restaurants and shops within easy walking distance. If you’d like dinner before a show, you can choose from several options along Kerikeri Road: Asian eateries, pizza and burgers, or Kiwi cafes serving sandwiches and salads. (One reviewer noted that Rocksalt itself is central: “Kerikeri’s centre for dining out” (rock-salt.co.nz ).) There’s a bottle store just a block away for grabbing take-home drinks, and a convenience store around the corner for snacks. For coffees or casual dining, Trinity Wharf and other eateries near the waterfront are only a short drive or bike ride from town.
If you’re staying overnight, Kerikeri has many lodging choices nearby. Motels and B&Bs like Settlers Motel or Bella Vista are within a few minutes’ drive or a 10–15 minute walk. The Bay of Islands Airport is about 5 km from Rocksalt. After the show (remember Rocksalt serves drinks till 1am on Friday and Saturday (www.tripadvisor.co.nz )), a short taxi or rideshare can take you back to hotels or even to Paihia or Russell if you want to continue the night. On most nights, visitors simply head home with an afternoon or evening bus (if available) or stay overnight in Kerikeri.
What Makes This Venue Special
Several things make Rocksalt Bar and Restaurant stand out in Northland’s live-music scene. First, its unique stonegrill concept and cozy interior (open fireplace, leather lounges (rock-salt.co.nz )) give it a character all its own, blending a classy lounge feel with a good old Kiwi pub spirit. It’s also one of the few real rock & party venues in the Bay of Islands, regularly hosting bands and DJs that most small towns don’t see. The fact that a High Court judge even took notice of its role in the community (fining it in 2018 for unlicensed live music, specifically because “the importance of the music” to the bar’s business was so clear (www.onemusicnz.com )) speaks volumes: music isn’t just background here, it’s at the heart of the place.
Over the years, Rocksalt has accumulated its own lore. The bar’s quiz night and weekly events have become a local tradition – teams of regulars battle over trivia every Wednesday for restaurant vouchers. Many locals say it feels like “Kerikeri’s living room,” where people from all walks of life hang out: farmers grabbing a drink, holiday crowds unwinding after kayaking, and music lovers lining up for gigs. Notable performances and packed crowds on sold-out nights (from Reunion tours of Kiwi rock bands to theme parties) have made memories here. Its central downtown corner location also makes it a kind of landmark.
Culturally, Rocksalt has been important in drawing visitors into Kerikeri town after dark. It has helped keep Kiwi music alive in a rural area by giving local artists a stage. At the same time, its menu and ambiance celebrate New Zealand tastes – think juicy steaks, a selection of local beers, and family-friendly Sunday lunches (kids eat free!) embedded in an otherwise adult venue. All of this – from the open fire to the postered walls – creates a relaxing yet lively atmosphere that both artists and audiences appreciate. Ultimately, Rocksalt matters because it breathes nightlife and community life into Kerikeri, combining good food with genuine Kiwi hospitality and regular entertainment.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue advertises itself as wheelchair accessible (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). There is ramp access at the entrance and an accessible restroom. Do note that in heavy crowds it can get tight, so if you have mobility needs you might ask staff to reserve a space in advance. The parking lot on Cobham has a few disabled spots in walking distance. If arriving by coach, tell your driver the Kerikeri CBD stop is near Rocksalt (Cobham Road corner).
What to bring: Always carry a photo ID if you plan to drink – almost all late-night events and concerts at Rocksalt are 18+, and ID is strictly checked (www.ticketfairy.com ). It’s smart to have cash on hand too (some small vendors or jukebox games might be cash-only), though cards are widely accepted. Dress is completely casual (jeans, shorts, tees are fine) – there’s no fancy dress code for any event. If you plan to dance, comfortable shoes are a good idea on the wooden floor. Leaving large bags at home or in your car can speed up entry inspections.
Avoid common mistakes: First, don’t assume busy evenings or promoted deals mean you can cut in line – Rocksalt tickets (or dinner bookings) are needed for events. If you simply walk in expecting a table on a crowded Saturday without a reservation, you might have to wait. Second, check kitchen hours – the kitchen usually stops serving around 10pm on weeknights (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ) (though the bar continues until late). For families, remember Sunday is when kids dine free with an adult meal (rock-salt.co.nz ), not Saturdays, so plan that meal accordingly. It’s also wise to leave earlier if roads are busy (for instance, some NZ bus coaches will leave Kerikeri around 10pm for Auckland). Finally, even though it’s a “bar,” people often forget that it’s also a restaurant – tipping is not required but rounding up or $2–$5 per meal is appreciated for good service.
Inside info: Arrive 15–30 minutes before an event starts if you want a good spot (the bar opens earlier). Happy hour runs 3–6pm on Thursday (beer) and Friday (wine) (rock-salt.co.nz ) – a great time for early visitors to grab a seat and enjoy a cheap aperitif. If you attend a popular concert or theme night, note that outsiders (guests not on a guest list) might have to pay a cover or buy a basic ticket at the door. Space can get crowded on weekends, so if you prefer quieter seating try a weekday quiz night instead. Lastly, keep an eye on social media or local posters for special one-off events – Rocksalt occasionally surprises the community with pop-up gigs or holiday parties at short notice.
What is the seating and capacity inside Rocksalt Bar and Restaurant?
Rocksalt is a medium-sized pub layout with a mix of seating. There’s a main dining/bar area with tables and booths downstairs, plus an upstairs lounge area. For concerts, much of the floor is open for standing, with seats mainly around the room edges. No official capacity is published, but it comfortably holds over 100 people across its two levels. For peak events, arriving early to get a table or good spot by the speakers is recommended.
How much are tickets and where can I buy them for Rocksalt events?
Ticket prices vary by event. Small local band nights might be around NZD $20–30, while bigger concerts (like Blindspott or themed DJ nights) often range $50–70. Tickets are usually sold online in advance through NZ event sites or group ticket pages. Early-bird (presale) tickets can be cheaper. Event details will tell you when and where tickets go on sale – often via Eventfinda or Ticket Fairy – and you can sometimes call Rocksalt to inquire. Always buy early for popular shows as they can sell out.
What are the parking options and public transport near Rocksalt?
Parking in central Kerikeri is mostly on-street and free. There are spaces along Kerikeri Road and nearby side streets. The nearby Cobham Road car park is a popular free lot (painted lines maintained by the council (
www.fndc.govt.nz )). On busy nights you might need a few minutes to find a spot. As for transit, InterCity coaches stop at the Kerikeri bus shelter on Cobham Road (not far from Rocksalt) (
infocouncil.fndc.govt.nz ). Otherwise, most people drive, use taxis, or ride-share. If staying in town, Rocksalt is an easy walk from most central hotels and motels.
What is the layout of Rocksalt and which seats are best?
Rocksalt has a ground-floor dining and bar area plus a raised mezzanine lounge. Live shows are typically on a stage at the far end of the main room. For concerts, best viewing is standing near the front or taped-off floor area, where the sound and stage lighting are optimized. If you prefer to sit, there are tables around the sides; front-row tables near the stage give great views. The upstairs balcony lounge (with sofas around the fireplace) is quieter but farther from the action. Avoid seats right behind pillars or speakers if you want clear sightlines.
Are there any restrictions or rules for attending events at Rocksalt?
The venue enforces standard bar rules. Many events are strictly R18, so bring photo ID (e.g. driver’s licence or passport); nights when DJs or bands play often check IDs at the door (
www.ticketfairy.com ). No outside food or drinks are allowed. Dress code is casual – jeans and shirts are fine. For safety, large bags or umbrellas may be checked at the entrance. By law, smoking is only permitted outdoors in the courtyard area. Rocksalt does allow children at its family entree times (like Sunday lunches with kids-eat-free), but after-dark concerts are adults only. Finally, usual club etiquette applies: follow security instructions, respect personal space in the crowd, and be aware the bar closes by 1am on weekends (
www.tripadvisor.co.nz ).
What food and drink options are available inside the venue?
Rocksalt’s kitchen serves an a la carte menu of pub and grill dishes all day (from 10am). Highlights include steaks, burgers, fish and chips, and a signature stone-grill where you cook meat on hot stones at your table (
rock-salt.co.nz ). Meanwhile, the bar offers a full range: tap beers (Heineken is popular), local craft beers, wines by the glass or bottle, premium spirits and bottled ciders. Regular drink specials apply (e.g. weekday happy hours on beer and wine (
rock-salt.co.nz )). They also have non-alcoholic options like soft drinks and barista coffee. You can order food or snacks through most of the event – just note the kitchen stops meal service around 9:30–10pm on weeknights.
Does Rocksalt have any special accessibility or inclusive features?
Yes, Rocksalt is wheelchair-accessible (
www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). There’s a ramp (or level entry) at the door, and an accessible restroom inside. The dining floor is on one level (no steps) so wheelchair users can navigate it easily. Service staff are accustomed to helping patrons with disabilities. Note that the main bus stop’s placement (Cobham Road outside #13-15) has been moved around for safety in the past (
infocouncil.fndc.govt.nz ), so if you’re arriving by coach and have mobility issues, it’s worth telling the driver to let you off on Cobham Road by the main shops (that’s within a short walk of Rocksalt). If you need any other assistance (like a quieter table), calling ahead to the bar might be helpful.
What are typical prices for food and drinks at Rocksalt?
Prices are mid-range by NZ standards. Expect main dishes (steak, ribs, burgers) in the NZ$25–35 range, pub classics a bit cheaper, and kids’ meals around NZ$12–15. Daily specials help stretch a budget: e.g. the famous Monday deal is buy-one-get-one ribs. Drink prices: draught beer pints are about NZ$9–11, and house wine $7–9 a glass depending on type. Cocktails and premium drinks are $13–$15 typically (note Saturday cocktail special at $13 (
rock-salt.co.nz )). combo options like beer towers or jug specials happen often on the menu. On event nights, cover charges apply separately; check with the promoter or Rocksalt’s site for any extra fees.
Can I host a private event or party at Rocksalt?
Yes – Rocksalt is often booked for private functions (birthdays, work events, weddings). They have a private lounge upstairs with couches and a pool table, plus open areas that can be sectioned off. A deposit is usually required. Function packages can include catering, a DJ or live music (their site notes “Resident DJ or you can bring your own music” (
rock-salt.co.nz )), and use of a microphone for speeches. Because Rocksalt has its own bar and kitchen, they can provide food and drink service for your group. To book, you would contact Rocksalt in advance – they handle planning “from start to finish” as a one-stop venue (
rock-salt.co.nz ). For large events, give them a headcount early so they can reserve enough staff and space.
What time should I arrive for an evening show?
It’s best to arrive about 30 minutes before doors open. The ticket usually says “doors at X:00,” but if not, arrival 7:00pm for an 8:00pm show is typical. This lets you grab a good spot or table and order drinks. Evenings in Kerikeri quiet down a bit around 11pm, so for late shows (ending around midnight), plan transit in advance. On Fridays and Saturdays, Rocksalt stays open until 1am (
www.tripadvisor.co.nz ), but note that after midnight transport options (buses/taxis) may be limited, so leave enough time to get back safely.
