About 289 Oxford St
The address 289 Oxford Street in Levin is home to The Oxford Hotel (formerly known as the New Oxford Hotel). This central venue opened in 2007 and quickly became one of Levin’s most popular pubs and entertainment hubs . It combines a licensed bar, restaurant and lounge under one roof, offering a warm, casual atmosphere. The building has a distinctive old-town pub style – wooden interiors, bar stools, pool tables and a stage in one of its function rooms – all contributing to a friendly, local vibe. There is on-site parking for patrons and nearby street parking, making it easy to drop in after work . Its prominence on Oxford Street (the town’s main strip) makes the Oxford Hotel a key social centre for horowhenua locals and visitors.
Events and Programming
The Oxford Hotel regularly hosts live entertainment and themed nights. It’s known for booking a variety of performers – local and touring bands play everything from rock to country – and DJ nights and karaoke are also common. Reviews and local guides note that “the bar is popular for holding a number of shows and concerts of various performers” . In addition to music, the venue runs special events: for example, themed parties like Black-and-White Balls, summer dress-up nights (with prizes for best outfit) and holiday celebrations. Patrons can often enjoy game nights or competitions; the pub even hosts weekly poker (Texas Hold ’Em) nights and sports tipping contests . Regular events include quiz nights, live country music and tribute shows. The Oxford’s in-house restaurant and bar schedule means there is entertainment most nights of the week – from casual band gigs on a Friday or Saturday to family-friendly events on weekends. Entry to many shows is free or by small cover charge; special concerts or ticketed events may require booking in advance. The exact program varies year to year, but attendees can expect a lively schedule that reflects Levin’s community tastes (live bands, acoustic nights, holiday theme parties and the occasional touring act).
Tickets and Booking
For most evenings at the Oxford, there’s no formal ticketing system – guests show up and either pay a small cover charge at the door or are welcome free of charge if listed as an open event. For larger events (for example, big-name bands or holiday parties), tickets may be sold in advance via the venue’s website or local ticket outlets. It’s a good idea to call the Oxford Hotel directly or check its official social media for ticket details on those occasions. In general you can also pay at the door if space remains. There’s no external box office; any reserved tables (in the grill/restaurant) can be booked by phone. Keep an eye on local event listings – or ask the bar staff – to find out when big shows are happening. The restaurant (Roadhouse Grill) and bar are open every night of the week, so dinner and drinks service is available regardless of live music schedule .
Seating and Layout
The Oxford Hotel’s interior is divided into a few distinct areas. Up front and to one side is the Roadhouse Grill restaurant section with table seating for diners. Adjoining that is the main bar lounge, furnished with high tables, bar stools and casual seating. At the rear (or sometimes upstairs) is a large function room which doubles as the live-music venue. This area has a raised stage and space for standing or dancing; portable tables or stools can be set up along the sides. Most concerts and performances are held in this function space, giving the audience unreserved (general admission) viewing. There is no fixed stadium seating – people mingle, stand or grab a chair by the bar. For the best view and sound, aim to stand or sit near the front of the function room (close to the stage). The bar staff will often let you know where you can set your drink or rest before the show starts. Acoustically, the function room is designed for live bands – sound levels can be loud, so ear plugs may be advisable. Overall, seating is casual; nothing is permanently allocated as VIP. If you prefer to sit, any of the side tables offer a good line of sight with bonus of restaurant service.
Getting There and Parking
289 Oxford Street is located on Levin’s main street (State Highway 1). It sits opposite the intersection of Oxford and Bath streets, right near the Levi Civic Centre and library. The exact postal address is 289 Oxford Street, Levin 5510. By car, the venue is very easy to reach – look for the big green “Oxford Hotel” sign. The hotel has a small on-site car park for patrons at the rear or side of the building . Additional street-parking is available on Oxford and neighbouring streets. (Note that parking meters operate during the week, although on weekends and after hours these are generally free .) For longer-stay parking, council runs an all-day car park at the corner of Bath and Salisbury Streets (next to Te Takere arts centre) – just a 2-minute walk.
Public transport: Levin is served by InterCity coaches (long-distance buses). All InterCity buses to Levin stop near Te Takere (15 Bath Street), which is only about 200m from the Oxford Hotel. From there, it’s a short walk north along Bath Street and Oxford Street to reach 289. Levin also offers a local shuttle (“Day Out in Town” bus on Fridays) which loops via Te Takere. Taxis and rideshares are common in Levin; drivers know the Oxford Hotel as a drop-off point on Oxford Street. If you use GPS or a rideshare, just input “Oxford Hotel Levin” or the address 289 Oxford St.
Inside the Venue
When you enter the Oxford Hotel, you’ll find a relaxed, friendly pub atmosphere. On one side is the Roadhouse Grill (restaurant) serving meals; on the other is the bar area where you order drinks and mingle. Staff generally ask to see photo ID at the door (it’s an 18+ licensed venue), so have your ID ready for evening events. The dress code is normally casual – T-shirts, jeans and shoes are fine – but occasionally themed functions may ask for dress-up (e.g. black & white attire) . Coat racks and small lockers are not provided, so keep personal items on you or store them under the table.
The bar carries a wide selection of beers and ciders (both local brands like Tui and Export Gold and international favorites like Guinness) as well as mixed drinks and a seasonally rotating cocktail menu . You can relax at the bar or spill out into the function room space during live shows. The restaurant menu offers hearty pub fare (burgers, steaks, pizzas, etc.) and is open nightly from 5pm . Restrooms are located near the bar and are signposted; they are wheelchair accessible. (A small entry ramp from Oxford Street serves the ground floor, but check ahead for any steps if you need it.) Wi-Fi may be available informally, but cellular coverage is reliable if you need data. There’s no formal cloakroom, so valuables should be kept on you. As with any busy venue, expect friendly background music and chatter even before the show starts.
Nearby Amenities
The Oxford Hotel’s central location means plenty of food, drink and lodging options are within easy walking distance. For meals before a show, nearby choices include Firebird Café (60 Oxford St) – a popular spot for coffee, burgers, salads and pizzas – as well as O’Malley’s Bar & Grill (104 Oxford St) which serves pub-style meals in a family-friendly environment. If you fancy something exotic, the Tsunami Lounge on Liverpool St offers a casual Asian-fusion menu and often has late-night coffee service.
For after-show drinks, Levin has several bars: a short walk north is the Levin Cosmopolitan Club (members’ club with snacks), and closer is the Bar Albatross (a sports bar across the road on Queen St). The popular Levin Sports Bar on Queen St West is a few blocks away for a change of scene.
Accommodation-wise, the Oxford has a few guest rooms you can book via its website (click “Reserve Your Room” at the top). Other nearby lodging includes motels like Totara Lodge (50 Devon St) and Redwood Lodge (on nearby Devon St), or the TOP 10 Holiday Park. Those highlight some local options, but you can search “Levin hotels” for current availability if needed.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Oxford Hotel is distinctive for bringing a larger-city entertainment vibe to small-town Levin. It stands out architecturally as one of the few modernized historic pubs on Oxford Street (Oxford Tavern/Shaws Hotel used to occupy this site years ago). More importantly, it’s a cultural hub for Horowhenua: live music, dance and community events happen here that you won’t see elsewhere in town . Many Levin residents cherish it as the place to hear new bands or to hold celebrations (band practice, fundraiser gigs, quiz competitions, etc.). The mix of a comfortable pub and an upstairs function room gives visiting performers decent facilities – sound system, lighting and a full bar – which makes it easier for the venue to attract regional acts. Over the years it’s hosted fundraisers, special TV-posting parties and milestone gigs, cementing its role in local lore. In short, both artists and audiences love The Oxford because it feels like a genuine community-owned music venue (or “hot-spot”) yet offers all the amenities of a professional (licensed) pub. Its friendly staff and reputation for well-organized events mean performers are often eager to return, and crowds feel at home – giving this venue a unique, welcoming character.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The main bar and restaurant are on street level, with one small ramp inside for wheelchair access. Restrooms are on the ground floor. If you have mobility needs, it’s advisable to check in advance – staff are generally very helpful with seating adjustments or special assistance. Service animals are allowed if needed.
What to bring/not bring: The Oxford is a casual pub setting. Bring a valid photo ID (e.g. driver’s licence or passport) as you’ll be asked for age verification (the venue serves alcohol). Dress is informal – jeans and a nice top work fine on most nights. Avoid bringing large bags or outside food/drinks (these are not permitted inside). If you plan to dance near the stage, consider wearing earplugs to protect your hearing from the loud live music. There’s no coat check or lockers, so only bring valuables and carry them with you.
Common mistakes: Don’t underestimate travel time – if you rely on taxis or rideshare, call them a bit early as services can be slower in the evening. The Oxford usually isn’t difficult to find, but colder months see it get dark early so use street signs. If attending a big event, arrive early (30–60 minutes) to secure a good spot, especially on weekends. Unlike large city clubs, this venue can fill up quickly when a popular band plays.
Restrictions: The hotel enforces an 18+ policy after dark (under-18s must be with a parent or guardian and usually only allowed in dining areas until early evening). Smoking is not permitted indoors (there is a front porch area if the weather allows). Flash photography and video recording of performances are generally discouraged out of courtesy to the band. Pets of any kind (except service animals) are not allowed.
Other tips: Check Buses or shuttle availability late at night – the last Day Out bus returns around 6pm on weekdays, and taxis can be limited in rural areas, so have a backup plan. Likewise, credit cards are accepted, but it never hurts to have some cash for small bar tabs or parking meters. During summer, the outdoor patio (if open) can be a nice spot before shows. Lastly, ask locals about any music tradition (e.g. annual charity gig or festival party) that might align with your visit – the Oxford often participates in town-wide events with special activities.
How can I get tickets for events at 289 Oxford St Levin?
Most nights at the Oxford are free entry or cover at the door. If a show has paid tickets (for example, a headliner concert), the venue usually sells them in advance through its own channels (venue website or phone booking) and often still offers door sales until capacity is reached. In short, check The Oxford’s announcements or call ahead; otherwise pay at the door.
Are there advance ticket sales or presales?
For larger events, presales may be offered. The Oxford Hotel will advertise these on its official Facebook page or website. Presale tickets (if available) might be sold via a local ticketing service or by contacting the restaurant in advance. Usually the best strategy for a popular show is to reserve early, but many gigs still allow walk-up entry until sold out.
Where can I buy tickets if I miss the presale?
If you miss any presale, just head to the venue on the night. Most events at The Oxford allow on-the-day ticket purchases at the door while space lasts. It’s often easier to turn up early and pay at the bar on arrival. Always confirm with the Oxford Hotel’s event notice whether door tickets are accepted for your show.
What are good ways to travel to the Oxford Hotel via public transport?
Levin doesn’t have a local metro, but national buses (InterCity) stop at Te Takere, the library/arts centre on Bath Street, just a 5-minute walk from the Oxford. You can also take the free or low-cost shuttle bus (“Day Out in Town”) that loops through Levin (ask if there’s a stop closest to Oxford Street). Otherwise, ridesharing or taxi are common and can drop you right outside the main door on Oxford Street.
Is parking available at the Oxford Hotel?
Yes. The Oxford Hotel has a small private car park at the rear for patrons, plus off-street spots around the block. There is also ample public parking nearby – for example, an all-day car park at Bath & Salisbury Streets (about 2 blocks away) provides free parking during evenings and weekends . Street parking is metered on weekdays but free after hours and on weekends.
What seating options are available for events?
The Oxford’s events area is mostly standing room with a few movable tables and bar stools. There’s no reserved seating or formal theatre-style rows. You can sit at any available table in the grill or lean against the bar if the event is casual. For concerts, guests typically stand close to the stage or sit on peripheral seating. Arriving early will help you claim a comfortable spot.
Does the venue have an upstairs or balcony level?
The venue is mostly single-level in use for events. There is an upstairs section (offices and hotel rooms) that is not generally open to the public. All performances and audience areas are on the ground floor. If there’s an upstairs balcony or additional floor space, it’s usually closed off during shows.
Are children allowed at Oxford Hotel events?
Levin’s bars require 18+ for entry after dark. Children (under 18) can accompany parents only in the dining area, and typically only until early evening. If it’s an all-ages gig or a family-friendly daytime event, under-18s may be welcome early on, but after about 8pm the Oxford becomes an adult-only venue. Always bring photo ID for each adult, as door staff check age.
Is there a dress code at the Oxford Hotel?
The dress code is generally casual-cool. Most nights people wear neat casual wear (e.g. nice jeans and a shirt). However, The Oxford frequently holds special theme nights (like black & white parties or 70s retro nights) where dressing to theme is encouraged. If in doubt, wear something you wouldn’t mind dancing in – the crowd is relaxed, but avoid overly formal clothes or costumes except at theme events.
Can I bring outside food or drinks into the venue?
No. The Oxford is a licensed premises, so no external alcohol is permitted. Outside or takeaway food is generally not allowed in the entertainment area either. You’re encouraged to enjoy the on-site menu and bar service. If you have dietary needs, the Roadhouse Grill can usually accommodate orders (e.g. vegetarian or gluten-free) as part of its menu.
Are cameras or recording devices allowed during shows?
Casual photography (phones, point-and-shoot) is usually tolerated, but professional cameras or video gear may be restricted. It’s best to check with management for the specific event. Many local acts and artists ask that you focus on the music rather than video during the set. In any case, flash photo-taking is generally discouraged during performances to avoid distracting performers.
What food and drink options are available inside the venue?
The Oxford boasts a full bar and restaurant. The Roadhouse Grill serves pub-style meals (burgers, pizzas, steaks, etc.) seven days a week from early evening . In the bar you’ll find a range of beers (local Tui, DB export, international names), ciders and standard spirits. The cocktail menu (think Kiwi classics like Hoopers Lemon, or specialty mixers like “Vodquila”) rotates seasonally . Soft drinks, coffee and snacks are also on offer. You can order food at most tables, and drink orders are taken throughout the venue.
Is the Oxford Hotel wheelchair accessible?
The main entrance and bar area are mostly on one level. There is a small ramp inside leading to the function space. Restrooms on the ground floor are wheelchair-accessible. However, parts of the building have a couple of steps (e.g. a slight rise into the restaurant). If you need full step-free access, it’s recommended to call ahead so staff can assist. The Oxford strives to accommodate all guests, but it isn’t a fully flat, modern facility.
What is the atmosphere like during events?
Expect a lively, friendly pub crowd. On show nights the music can get loud and people often mingle and dance. There may be cheering and applause during sets. In quieter moments, you’ll hear background chatter, laughter and the clinking of glasses. The crowd is generally a mix of regulars (often late 20s–50s in age) and visitors. It’s an informal setting – no strict line-up or seating – just a relaxed vibe where patrons gather around the stage or bar.
Are there late-night transport options after the venue closes?
Public buses in Levin typically do not run late. If you need to get back at night, taxis or rideshares (Uber) are your best bet. There are several taxi companies in Levin and they serve Oxford St, though on busy nights expect a short wait. The last Day Out bus departs the center by evening; it’s best to arrange for a taxi or pick-up after late shows. Plan ahead or ask the bar staff which companies are reliable in town.
What are the venue’s opening hours?
The Oxford Hotel bar typically opens around 10am daily and serves drinks throughout the afternoon and evening. The kitchen (Roadhouse Grill) emphasizes dinner service from about 5pm , and often stays open until around 9pm (or later on weekends). On event nights, the music usually starts after 8pm and the bar will stay open late (often until midnight or 1am). Check the hotel’s weekly schedule (online or on their Facebook) for exact door-times on gig nights.
