About Sin Bin
Sin Bin is a casual sports bar and live music venue on Hutt Road in Alicetown (Lower Hutt) (www.sharedspace.co.nz ) (nzdirectory.co.nz ). It bills itself as “the Hutt Valley’s premium sports bar” (nzdirectory.co.nz ), combining multiple big-screen TVs for live games with an in-house stage for bands. The venue occupies roughly 100 m² and can hold up to about 200 people (www.sharedspace.co.nz ), making it an “intimate” indoor space. Inside there are three bar counters and a mix of high-top and lounge seating areas (thefamilycompany.co.nz ), plus game and lounge zones such as a “Garden Bar” patio area (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). Signature features include full audio/video system to broadcast sports (fans praise that “sound is great for sports” (www.tripadvisor.co.uk )) and event lighting for music nights, a stage for live acts, dart boards and a pool table for casual play (thefamilycompany.co.nz ) (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). Sin Bin also offers standard pub fare like burgers, pizzas and famously “wicked” chicken wings、and a rotating tap selection (often including craft brews) to complement the sports bar vibe (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ) (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). The atmosphere is energetic and informal – on game days and party nights the place “really fills up at 9:00” and can get quite lively (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). Located at 499/501 Hutt Road, the building was once another local pub (often called “the Parrot”), and was refurbished and relaunched as Sin Bin in recent years as part of a renewal of the Station Village precinct (nzdirectory.co.nz ) (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). The result is a neighbourhood watering hole beloved for sports, music and socialising in Lower Hutt.
Events and Programming
At Sin Bin you’ll find a mix of televised sports, DJ nights and live music. Every major sporting event (rugby tests, Super Rugby, soccer matches, motorsport, etc.) is shown on the big screens with sound, and the bars often run game-day specials. Fridays and Saturdays generally feature DJs and dance parties, while weekends may include cover bands, tribute acts or club shows. Local and touring New Zealand acts of rock, punk, reggae and funk drop in on weekends – for example, concert listings show events like the “JKING Tour” club show in December 2024 (www.ticketfairy.com ). Sin Bin does not have a fixed concert calendar online, so frequenters typically rely on word-of-mouth or sites like Ticket Fairy to find specific gigs. Tickets (when required) are usually modest (often under $20) and sales are handled on the door or via the venue’s social media/event pages. Many events are free to enter: quiz nights and casual music nights have no cover, while private functions or big-name bands might charge at the door. In short, the calendar is varied: one night it’s live jazz or an indie showcase, another night it’s a dance-DJ session or a local punk band. Regulars know to keep an eye on social media for “where’s the party at Sin Bin tonight” announcements. Recurrent events include sports-watch parties (for Sevens, World Cup games, etc.), beer-tasting nights, and possibly pub quizzes on slow nights. Check online event listings (e.g. local listings or the Ticket Fairy link) for up-to-date shows (www.ticketfairy.com ), or simply ask the friendly bar staff on your next visit.
Tickets and Booking
For most occasions, Sin Bin does not sell tickets through a central box office – it’s best to treat it like a pub pub for drop-in visits. If a band or big event is announced, tickets (if any) are typically sold in advance through event sites, or at the door on the night. Popular shows can sell out, so it’s wise to buy early once available. In many cases entry is “pay at the door”: you pay cover (often just $5–$15) or show your online confirmation on arrival. There is no physical box-office on site, so use official local event platforms (or the venue’s social media) to purchase in advance. For very busy nights (e.g. a sold-out tribute show), stalls may not open early – expect doors around 7-8pm. Smaller nights (open-mic, quiz, quiet Saturdays) often have free admission or grab-a-table entry. When in doubt, call ahead or check the venue’s own social accounts for any “entry fee” notices. Note that Sin Bin is a licensed venue, so smoking may only be allowed in designated outdoor areas, and no outside food or drink is permitted.
Seating and Layout
Sin Bin’s interior is an open-plan pub layout. There are three separate bars: the main indoor bar and two satellite bars (including an outdoor “garden bar” area) (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). Seating is mostly casual—high tables, bar stools and a few booths—rather than fixed theatre chairs. Many nights are general-admission standing room in front of the stage, so arriving early gives the best view. The venue has one small stage pushed to a corner wall, with performers close to the audience. Because of the open design and keen sports-viewing focus, most tables have good sight lines to at least one big screen. Acoustically, Sin Bin’s sound system is tuned for both speeches (sports commentary) and music – reviewers note it is “great for sports” (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ), and still lively for concerts (though big rock shows can be quite loud in the relatively small space). As a caveat, wheelchair access is limited: a review says the ground-level entry is step-free and there are disabled parking spots out front (thefamilycompany.co.nz ), but some seating areas (like high tables) are not wheelchair-friendly. The accessible toilet is available inside (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). Overall, the venue feels more like an energetic pub than a formal theatre—if you prefer relaxed booth seating you might be slightly cramped, but there are low tables by the walls for dining or casual chatter. On packed nights the back section (near the “Garden Bar”) can be a quieter spot with its own small bar and even some gaming machines (there’s an on-site ATM and pokies in the rear area (thefamilycompany.co.nz )).
Getting There and Parking
Sin Bin sits on State Highway 2 (Hutt Road) in Alicetown, Lower Hutt (address 499/501 Hutt Road) (nzdirectory.co.nz ). By car, street parking is available along Hutt Road and side streets; there is no private lot but reviews note “plenty of parking out the front (including disabled spots)” (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). The stop is near the Bridge Street intersection. Several Metlink bus routes serve Hutt Road – for example, Route 150 runs between Petone and central/western Lower Hutt; local lines like 110 also stop nearby. The nearest train station is Petone (on the Hutt Valley line), about a 2.5 km walk up Jackson Street. Rideshare pickup/drop-off on Hutt Road (the highway) is straightforward; night rates can be high after hours. If travelling from Wellington by car, expect about a 15–20 minute drive (depending on traffic) south on SH2. A cycle trail runs parallel to Hutt Road too, for bike access. Note that central Lower Hutt has paid parking zones, but along Hutt Road parking is usually unmetered. Finally, check opening hours when planning your arrival – the doors typically open at 10:00 am daily (www.waze.com ) (making it a valid lunch/afternoon spot), but most events and crowds start in the evening.
Inside the Venue
Upon entering Sin Bin, you’ll find a casual pub atmosphere. The doors swing open with no formal check at normal hours, though on busy nights security staff may verify ID for age. The bar itself is long and well-stocked with local and international beers, ciders and wines, plus a full spirits inventory (and often a rotating guest tap). Staff are generally friendly – one patron notes the staff “always have smiles on their dial” (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). There is free Wi-Fi available for patrons (www.sharedspace.co.nz ). Food and drink orders are placed at the bar; a kitchen serving pub-grub runs until late. Popular menu items (wings, burgers, pizzas, fries) tend to sell out quickly on event nights. The venue does allow takeaway of drinks to the outdoor area. Restrooms (including a gender-neutral toilet) are at the back. There’s also an ATM inside (by the gaming machines) for cash needs (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). The vibe is informal: expect a mix of sports fans in jerseys during matches and dance-floor or mosh-pit crowds later on. Dress is casual; most people wear jeans or shorts and tees (Kiwis often arrive in rugby or football jerseys when their teams are playing). Photography is generally tolerated (no flash restrictions are posted, but be respectful of performers and other patrons). The venue is smoke-free indoors (as per law); a small smoking corner is outside. If attending a concert or club night, bag searches may be conducted by staff at the door.
Nearby Amenities
Just outside Sin Bin, the Station Village area has some convenient amenities. Within a few blocks you’ll find fast-food spots (fish-&-chips, kebabs) and a coffee shop, either on Hutt Road or down a side street. For a sit-down dinner, a short drive west on Hutt Road brings you to central Petone (Jackson Street, circa 2 km away), which has many restaurants and cafes. Lower Hutt city centre (Queen’s Drive) is also nearby with dining, bars and pubs, as well as the Dowse Art Museum’s cafe. There are some accommodation options in central Lower Hutt (e.g. Novotel, Copthorne) and in Petone for overnight stays. If arriving early, Alfresco eating is possible at a few park benches in the Station Village precinct. After the show, late-night eats are limited because most local kitchens close by 10pm; the nearest late-lunch venue is at the Petone Light House or some 24h chains on Hutt Road near Waterloo Road. Late-night transport: Metlink buses run until around midnight on main routes, and trains run until about 12:30 am on weekends (timetable check recommended). Rideshares/taxis are an easy option for the last ride home.
What Makes This Venue Special
Sin Bin has carved out a unique niche in the Wellington region. Unlike typical city clubs or sports pubs, it blends both identities. It’s one of Lower Hutt’s few venues where you can catch a Hurricanes game on screen and then see a great live band an hour later. Architecturally, it’s housed in a converted suburban storefront – the exterior is unassuming, making the lively interior something of a hidden gem. Culturally, Sin Bin has filled a gap in Alicetown’s Station Village redevelopment (next to the local brewpubs) by providing a place for community gatherings and nightlife. Over the years it’s earned local “legendary” status among Hutt Valley rockers and rugby fans alike (for example, hosting big watch parties for The Rock 1500 Countdown). Founder Ed, a long-time Lower Hutt local, imagined a place where everyone can feel like they’re in the penalty box – get “sent to the Sin Bin” for a night of fun and forget their worries. Its sisterhood with craft breweries (patrons often order take-away craft beers from the next door taproom) gives it a friendly community vibe. Weaving local history, the venue’s spot was once a well-loved pub (the Parrot & Jigger) back in the 2000s, so there’s a sense of continuity. Newer visitors often remark it’s exactly what the Hutt needed – a reliable, all-ages-friendly live venue that still captures the rowdy, blue-collar charm of the region. Inside, you’ll see memorabilia on the walls and many regulars who know each other by name. In sum, Sin Bin stands out for its party-friendly design and its proud identity as a hometown meeting place. Both audiences and touring artists appreciate the warm vibe: bands comment on the personal crowd interaction, and fans love that the sound is solid and the beer is cheap (thefamilycompany.co.nz ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Sin Bin’s front entrance is step-free and one accessible parking spot is provided nearby (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). The once-step Ian is reachable by wheelchair and the staff say there is a wheelchair-accessible restroom (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). Note, however, that most tables and bar seats are raised, so sightlines for wheelchair users are best near the stage or front bar. Assistance dogs are welcome (as per NZ pub law).Age Limits: No one under 18 can drink alcohol, so after 7 pm the venue enforces an 18+ policy. Children may come for an early lunch or afternoon game (the bar opens from 10 am (www.waze.com )), but in the evenings it’s strictly over-18. What to Bring/Not Bring: Bring a valid NZ or international photo ID if you plan to drink (driver’s licence or passport). Dress casually and sturdy (the floor is concrete). Leave large backpacks or explicit clothes at home – random bag searches may happen. Uplighting or costume parties may require nightclub attire (no jandals or surf-wear after dark).Peak Times: For busy game evenings or gigs, the crowds build up around 8–9 pm (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). If you want a good table or front-row spot, arrive at least an hour early. On the flip side, quiet afternoons fill up much later. Food and Drink: The kitchen serves until about 10 pm, so order dinner early on event nights. Chicken wings are reportedly a must-try (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). They have a good vegetarian pizza and salad if needed. If you have dietary restrictions (vegan/gluten-free), ask staff – limited options exist but they are accommodating. Happy hours or meal deals pop up during major sports (e.g., five-dollar wings during Super Rugby matches).Photography: Cellphone photos without flash are generally fine (the lighting is low). For loud concerts, be mindful of performers’ rules. Don’t film or flash without permission.Payment: The bar takes cards and cash. There’s an on-site ATM (thefamilycompany.co.nz ) if you need cash for slots or tipping.Etiquette: Kiwis are friendly – a thumbs-up or call to the bartender works if you need help. Tipping isn’t expected in New Zealand, but rounding up is appreciated. Be prepared for a lively crowd – it can get loud and rowdy (some reviewers jokingly call it “feral” on heavy drinking nights, so stay together if you have kids!). Avoid negative behaviour; staff are reasonable but do watch oaths. Getting Help: If you have an access requirement or special request (like a large group booking), phone ahead or email (the bar doesn’t publish an email, but a quick call to the listed number is best). Follow Sin Bin’s Facebook/Instagram for news – they often post early-bird alerts or event updates there (don’t rely on those alone, as crowds often form if a surprise gig is announced).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity and layout of Sin Bin?
Sin Bin is a relatively small venue (about 100 m²) that can hold roughly 180–200 people when packed (www.sharedspace.co.nz ). It has three bar counters and a variety of high-top tables and lounge seating (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). Most events are general admission (standing near the stage), with a few low tables and benches on the sides. In short: it’s an intimate pub setting rather than a large theatre.
How can I buy tickets for events at Sin Bin?
For most events, you buy tickets on the night at the door or via the venue’s announcements. Sin Bin rarely uses a formal box office. For larger advertised gigs, tickets might be sold through online event sites (e.g. local ticket scalers or Ticket Fairy), or directly via the band’s page. We recommend checking event listings online or the bar’s social media. Otherwise, many weeknight quiz/live nights have no cover and you just “pay at the door.”
Are there reserved seats or VIP areas?
No formal reserved seating exists at Sin Bin. All tables and standing areas are open to the public on a first-come basis. There is no separate VIP section. On a busy night, early arrival is the only way to “reserve” a spot. Sometimes the bar will mark a table as “reserved” for a party if arranged in advance, but consumers can’t book those unless specifically invited by that group.
What are the opening hours for Sin Bin?
According to listings, Sin Bin opens at 10:00 AM every day (www.waze.com ). Closing times vary: it typically shuts around 9–10 PM on weekdays, midnight on Thursdays, and 1:00 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. (Always check current hours on the venue’s calling card or social media for any special holiday changes.)
Is there parking at Sin Bin, and is it free?
There’s no dedicated private parking lot, but ample street parking is available. You can usually find free parking along Hutt Road and adjacent streets; one reviewer reports “plenty of parking out the front, including disabled” spots (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). Since Hutt Road is a highway, watch for no-parking signage (avoid bus stops). There is at least one marked disabled park right outside. If street parking is full, a short walk into adjacent neighbourhoods usually yields a spot.
How do I get to Sin Bin by public transport?
Sin Bin is on Hutt Road (SH2) in Alicetown. Several Metlink buses run along Hutt Road (for example, route 150 between Petone and central Hutt) – check the Metlink app or website for current routes and stops near Bridge St/Alicetown. The closest train station is Petone (Hutt Line), about 2.5 km away (a 7–10 minute drive/home via bus). Taxis and rideshares can drop off on Hutt Road at 499 Hutt Road (the address). There’s also a cycle path along Hutt Road if biking.
Is Sin Bin wheelchair accessible?
There is step-free entry into the venue (the floor is level from the front entrance) and at least one disabled parking space nearby (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). Staff have confirmed the restrooms are wheelchair-accessible as well (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). However, note that some seating uses high tables/stools, so a wheelchair user might need to stand at the front or find a low-table area. In summary: yes, you can enter and get around the main area (no stairs internally), but space is tight.
Can I pay for my drinks with card, or is only cash accepted?
The bar accepts EFTPOS/cash. While cash is handy (there is an ATM inside (thefamilycompany.co.nz )), you can use debit or credit cards for drinks and food. Tipping is optional and not required in New Zealand, but it’s welcome if you had good service. (Note: for the onsite pokies, you need cash or to set up a gambling account.)
Does Sin Bin have a coat check or lockers?
No, Sin Bin does not offer a coat check or locker service. It’s typical pub practice: you hang (or hold) your belongings at your table or by the bar. If security is present (on really busy nights), they may ask you to briefly open large bags, but usually there’s no formal check. Keep valuables on you as you would in any pub.
Is Sin Bin safe for going alone or as a first-time visitor?
Yes – Sin Bin is a community-focused pub. The staff are known to be friendly (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ) and the crowd is generally mixed-age sports fans and music lovers. As with any bar, it can get rowdy late at night, but it’s not in a high-crime area. Move with the flow, order responsibly, and if you feel uneasy just stick to the brighter front bar area or leave with the crowd. Overall it has a “good local” reputation, so solo visitors are common and welcome as long as you follow venue rules (ID if drinking, no abuse of others).
Does Sin Bin have a strict dress code?
No formal dress code is enforced. The typical crowd is very casual—jeans, shorts, jerseys and sneakers are perfectly fine (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). On themed nights (like a Friday club DJ), some people dress up a bit, but none of the high-end clubs’ “no jandals/singlets” rules apply here. Just come as you are (though on a nice Thursday/Saturday night many like to wear clean casual-outfits as they would for any bar).* No workwear boots or muddy gear indoors, and definitely bring a shirt to cover any tank top if you want.
Where should I sit for the best view of live performances?
The stage in Sin Bin is small, so even sitting near it puts you close. If you want a straightforward view, aim for the stools/tables directly facing the stage (usually the front-left area). Standing crowds can form in front - the earlier you arrive, the closer to center you get. Off to the sides or the back (near the “Garden Bar” entrance) are more lounge-style; those get quieter but farther from the stage, so only use them if you prefer a less-crowded seat. In any case the sound is loud everywhere, so you won’t really miss anything in back.
What types of food and drinks does Sin Bin serve?
Sin Bin’s menu is classic pub fare. Think burgers, nachos, pizzas (“Hutt Valley special” pizza is popular) and of course tasty chicken wings (one reviewer called them ‘awesome’ (www.tripadvisor.co.uk )). They also do salads and snacks (fries, onion rings). Beverage-wise there’s a full suite of beers (lagers, IPAs, ciders), plus several local craft taps, wines by the glass and house cocktails. Specials on beer pitchers or wings may appear during game nights. Note: they do not do fine dining or exotic cuisine—if you want sushi, head elsewhere beforehand. The food is bar-quality and very satisfying for watching sports or a casual night out.
Are children allowed at Sin Bin?
Children under 18 can enter if accompanied by an adult, but only until a certain time (usually 7pm) as per license regulations. Before evening events start, families sometimes come for an early dinner. However, after about 7–8 pm it becomes strictly 18+ (when the bar may check IDs). There’s no play corner or kids’ menu – children are more an incidental presence before dark. If you bring kids, do so with the understanding that the crowd gets louder and alcohol-focused later in the night.
Is there Wi-Fi available at Sin Bin?
Yes, Sin Bin provides complimentary Wi-Fi for customers (www.sharedspace.co.nz ). Simply ask the bartender for the network and password. It’s handy for checking sports scores or event details while you’re there.
Does Sin Bin serve its own craft beers or just typical pub brands?
In addition to standard lagers and pilsners, Sin Bin often carries taps of local craft brews. Reviewers mention a craft brewery bar next door (Choice Bros Brewery), and patrons sometimes bring those beers back into the pub (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). The bar’s regular offerings include a mix of import and New Zealand craft taps, so you’ll find at least one or two local ales on pour alongside mainstream beers. Ask the bartender for the latest specials or guest taps.
Can I bring my own decorated cake or special food for a celebration?
No, outside food or drink is generally not allowed (it’s a licensed premises). If you’re celebrating a birthday or similar, it’s best to coordinate with the manager ahead of time. They usually won’t allow a brought-in cake unless it’s cleared in advance. However, you could order a cake through the kitchen menu. The general rule is: if it’s not from their menu, assume it’s not permitted.
