About Lyttelton Coffee Company
Lyttelton Coffee Company is a beloved café, specialty coffee roastery and live-music venue at 29 London Street in historic Lyttelton, Canterbury. Established in 2007 by owner Stephen Mateer, it occupies a restored heritage building (built c.1921) in a Spanish Mission style brick façade that survived the 2011 quakes. This cozy centre has a rustic, bohemian vibe – artworks on the walls, wooden floors and warm lighting – with a large coffee roaster on display in the middle of the cafe. The space is modest in size, with a few dozen seats inside and picnic-style tables on an outdoor back deck overlooking Lyttelton Harbour. The deck offers one of the best harbour views in town, making it an iconic local hangout for morning coffee or evening drinks.
What makes this venue unique is its community spirit and sustainability focus. The owners are committed to green practices (for example using reusable milk canisters and a nearby compost garden), and they employ local art and music talents. Guests often describe the atmosphere as relaxed and creative. By day it serves award-winning coffee made from its own house-roasted beans, plus brunch and lunch food (seeded granola, baked eggs, sandwiches, fresh pastries, etc.). By night it transforms into a lively event space and bar. It’s considered one of Lyttelton’s cultural anchors – a place where local residents and visitors alike gather for great coffee, home-cooked style meals and vibrant arts programming.
Events and Programming
At night Lyttelton Coffee Company is best known for live music and cultural events. It offers a regular schedule of weekend gigs and DJ nights. Many Friday and Saturday evenings feature touring New Zealand indie bands, folk and rock acts, or electronic/ambient performers. The venue also hosts DJs every Friday, Saturday and Sunday (especially on summer weekends) for dance-friendly parties. Beyond music, Lyttelton Coffee Co. stages special events like album- or book-launch parties, zine and art launches, poetry readings and the occasional comedy or film night. In fact, it even runs community activities such as life-drawing classes and indoor spin (cycling) sessions – making it a true multi-purpose arts hub.
Live Acts: Expect local and touring acts across genres. Recent years have seen performers like Bill Direen (experimental rock/poetry), Alphabethead (electronic performance art), Ghost Bells (surreal pop), and many others on intimate stages. Shows often sell out at $15–$25 per ticket.DJs & Dance: Each weekend you’ll find paid-entry or free-entry DJ events spinning international dance, disco and techno, often with young crowds dancing under dimmed lights after dark.Special Events: Book launches, magazine launches and community fundraisers are common. For example, the cafe has hosted magazine release parties with local artists and all manner of listening sessions, usually as standing-room gatherings.Recurring: There’s no set weekly lineup besides the weekly DJs, but concerts occur most weekends from spring through autumn. No formal theater seating or subscription series – just a steady stream of unique concerts and social nights.
Ticket prices vary by event. Typical cover charges range from about NZ$10 up to NZ$25 or $30 for special headline acts. Many concerts have advance tickets sold online in local event presales, while moderate-barrier shows may simply charge door sales at the entry. Because seating is limited, popular gigs often sell out quickly; it’s wise to buy early or arrive by opening time. DJs and casual dance nights are sometimes no-cover or low-cover.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for concerts at the Coffee Company are usually sold via local New Zealand ticketing outlets or directly at the door. The venue itself does not have a staffed box office – instead, events are announced on the venue’s website, social media or local listings, and tickets become available online leading up to the show. For bigger shows the organizers often open an advance-sale period; after that any remaining tickets go on sale at the door. If an act is popular, expect tickets to go quickly.
When planning to attend, check the event details a few weeks in advance. The venue and promoters typically announce shows about 3–4 weeks ahead of time. For major concerts, aim to buy tickets as soon as they are released. For more casual gigs or DJ nights, door entry is usually possible if not sold out. There is no membership scheme or subscription – each event is standalone. Payment at the bar during performances is usually by card or cash (New Zealand dollars).
Strategies for popular events: join the mailing list or follow the venue’s social pages to get early alerts. Some promoters offer small presales via independent NZ platforms or through local music newsletters, so being on those lists helps. If you miss the presale, try arriving early on the night – but note there is often a queue for entry. On sold-out nights, no tickets are held at box office – once capacity is reached, the doors close to others for safety.
Seating and Layout
The layout of Lyttelton Coffee Company is cozy and informal. It is one large ground-floor room arranged in a café-style seating plan, with a raised wooden stage area at one end for performances. The bar and coffee counter run along one wall, opposite the stage. A few small fixed tables and chairs fill the centre, and there may be a bench and stools along the wall. In normal café hours the tables face out towards London Street and the harbor view.
When a band or DJ is booked, the café’s tables are sometimes rearranged or cleared to create standing room near the stage. There are no assigned seats – it’s mostly general admission. For seated gigs, people either sit at the remaining tables or mill about on the floor. Because the space is narrow, there’s really no “bad” seat: the front few rows near the stage are best for seeing the performers up close, while the middle tables offer a relaxed vantage. If noise is a concern, the back corner by the coffee bar can be quieter. During summer, some patrons may spill onto the small outdoor deck (weather permitting), though the music indoors is louder.
Inside the venue the acoustics are lively. The ceiling is moderately high with exposed beams, which means sound carries well. The house sound system is tuned for an intimate club feel: speakers flank the stage and project evenly across the room. If possible avoid standing directly against side speakers (walled corners) as those spots can be especially loud or boomy. Most people line up about 5–6 meters from the stage for a good balance of volume and view. The deck outside can only be used between sets or on chill nights – it’s not a primary listening area during shows, but a nice spot to step out for air or a quiet chat.
Getting There and Parking
The Coffee Company is located at 29 London Street, Lyttelton , just uphill from Lyttelton harbour. Coordinating with public transit and parking options will help. If driving from Christchurch, take State Highway 73 through the Lyttelton road tunnel and turn right at the tunnel exit onto Norwich Quay, then left onto London Street. Street parking is available along London Street and nearby side streets (though it can fill up on busy mornings or event nights). These are generally free, but always check for any time limit or metered spaces. There is also a small municipal car park at the end of London Street near the ferry terminal, and the nearby Canterbury Street car park, if open, may have some spots. Bear in mind Lyttelton parking is tight on weekends; if in doubt arrive early or share lifts.
Public Transport: Metro Christchurch bus service Route 28 runs regularly from the city to Lyttelton. The bus stop is on Norwich Quay (Port of Lyttelton side) at the corner of London Street or Canterbury Street, only 2–3 minutes’ walk from the cafe. Buses run approximately every 20–30 minutes during the day, including weekends (check the Metro timetable for exact schedules). If you’re coming from the Eastgate or other suburbs, a transfer may be needed. For those coming from Diamond Harbour or Governors Bay, the Black Cat ferry is an option: it docks at Lyttelton across from Lyttelton Quay, roughly a 5-minute walk to the venue via Norwich Quay and stepping over the Oxford Street bridge.
Parking Notes: There is no large private lot specifically for the cafe. Street parking is usually unrestricted beyond posted signs, but spaces can get cramped if events coincide. Rideshare services (Uber, Ola) and local taxis can drop off at the front door on London Street. Note that after hours it may be easier to arrange pickup at the Norwich Quay taxi stand, as London Street can become a one-way during heavy traffic. In NZ style, “parking” usually means on-street and free unless otherwise marked, but Lyttelton’s short-stay zones, if any, will be clearly signed.
Inside the Venue
Expect a laid-back, friendly vibe as you enter Lyttelton Coffee Company. During café hours the barista counter greets you immediately with the rich aroma of roasting coffee. During events, the entrance door will be staffed by a promoter or venue rep checking tickets or collecting door charge. Staff are known to be welcoming and helpful, so if you need wheelchair access or have a large bag they will assist as best they can. Normally you order drinks and food at the counter and carry them to your seat. For shows, wait at the door until staff lets you into the main room.
The interior is tastefully casual – exposed brick walls (painted creamy white), recycled-wood furniture and framed art by local artists. A glass display cabinet often shows pastries, cakes and sandwiches by the coffee bar. The bar also stocks a selection of local craft beers on tap and by the bottle, plus boutique New Zealand wines and ciders. At events, the staff continue to serve espresso drinks, juices and alcoholic beverages until closing time (so there is always a bar service during shows).
There is no formal ticket booth inside; instead tickets or wristbands are checked at a makeshift station by the door. The restrooms are plain but clean – typically located down a small side corridor toward the rear. Because space is limited, there is no separate coat check room. If you have a jacket or oversize bag, staff will usually hang it behind the bar or under a table. Just keep that in mind: consider bringing only essential items. Merely putting a coat on the back of your chair is common here. The venue is purportedly wheelchair friendly (the Tripadvisor listing confirms wheelchair access is available), so it is possible to roll inside from street level, though the main hall can feel cramped if fully packed.
Wi-Fi is sometimes active (especially for daytime cafe customers), but don’t count on a strong public network during packed events. Cell reception (NZ mobile networks) is generally fine in Lyttelton. If you need connectivity, local free Wi-Fi may be offered by the cafe on request, as many visitors appreciate it. Otherwise, most experience at events is noise, music and real conversation.
Merchandise and bar snacks are usually limited. The venue does not have an official merchandise shop, but visiting bands often set up a small table in the corner of the stage area to sell CDs or shirts. As a customer you can flag down the bar for more snacks – they don’t have a full kitchen menu at night beyond what’s left from the day menu, but they often serve simple finger foods (like jalapeño poppers, olives, or the famous cheese toasties) until closing. If you’re hungry late, some patrons order takeaway pizzas or burgers to be delivered from the local shops up the street – just carry your food back down to the venue and enjoy.
Nearby Amenities
Lyttelton’s village centre is very close-knit, so you have plenty of options for pre- or post-show dining and drinks. Just around the corner from the Coffee Co you’ll find:
The Cobb (Fish & Chips, local pub food) – classic Kiwi fish & chip shop across the road. Great for a quick bite.Everest Indian & Sherpa Kai – two adjacent shops on London St serving Nepalese and Indian curries, to-go style. A favourite for spiced snacks.Fisherman’s Wharf – upscale seafood grill on Norwich Quay (a few minutes’ walk). Offers harbour views and a lunch menu (opens early for daytime visitors).Civil & Naval – a tapas-style wine bar on Canterbury St (opposite the ferry terminal). Known for craft beers and shared plates.Super & The Lyttelton Arms – “Super” is a modern Asian-fusion eatery on Oxford Street with bao buns and burgers; right next door is The Lyttelton Arms, a low-key pub with pizzas and local ales.Boardwalk Restaurant – hidden away on Halifax Street (about a 5-min walk uphill), this is a cozy spot heralded for brunch and dinner with an intimate harbor outlook.
Other options: Otaromiro Hotel (a restored B&B/pub combo on Oxford St) does pub meals and sometimes live music. If you want breakfast before an early show, dozens of cafés and bakeries line Oxford Street (the main drag uphill). Late-night transport: the 28 bus runs until around 11pm on weekends, but hours may be shorter on Sunday night or public holidays. Taxis and rideshares are available; the nearest taxi rank is on Norwich Quay by the ferry exit. If you’re staying overnight, most visitors find accommodation in Christchurch city – there are a few motels and B&Bs on the peninsula, but supply is limited. (The Lyttelton Top10 Holiday Park has cabins if you prefer to stay right by the water.)
What Makes This Venue Special
Lyttelton Coffee Company stands out because it’s more than just a café or bar – it’s a local institution shaped by community spirit. Its location atop Lyttelton’s mini hill means sweeping views of the harbour right from the deck. The building itself – a 1920s butchery and woodshop restored by the owners – gives it character. Many years ago it was nearly declared unsafe after the quakes, but Stephen Mateer and a handful of locals insisted on rebuilding, reusing the old brick walls and timber. In 2013 it reopened stronger than ever. In that sense the cafe embodies Lyttelton’s resilience and pride in preserving history.
Inside, visitors often note the “living room” vibe. It has hosted countless memorable community moments: from audience sing-alongs to late-night philosophical chats, from impromptu jam sessions to winery-inspired tea parties. Locals love it because it continually supports emerging musicians and artists, giving small acts a professional stage. Nationally it’s respected as a craft coffee roastery (beans are exported to other NZ cafes) and for inventive events. Also, few cafes can claim they save 15,000 milk cartons from landfill each year by using steel canisters – this quirky eco-mission gives it an extra appeal to environmentally conscious patrons.
Imagine sitting at a table by the window at dusk: a mug of single-origin espresso in hand, a jazz quartet playing softly onstage, and the twinkling lights of the harbour out back. That’s the magic here. Even before it was fashionable, Lyttelton Coffee Co recognised that small-town charm and big-city espresso bars could mix beautifully. Frequent patrons (some who now commute from Christchurch just to drink its coffee) attest to its comforting aura. It’s not a slick city club; it’s handsomely imperfect, warm and inclusive – the kind of place where the barista remembers your name. All of these qualities – the view, the heritage, the local loyalty and the good tunes – make it special to New Zealanders and worthwhile for any visitor planning a stop.
Visitor Tips and Information
If you’re planning a visit, a few things will make your experience smoother. First, check the day and time carefully: weekday café hours are roughly 7am–4pm (7am–3pm Mon–Fri, 8am–3:30pm weekends as of recent schedules). Evening events typically start between 7:00pm and 8:00pm (doors often open 30–45 minutes before showtime). Arrive early on Saturday nights to get a good spot. Because the space is intimate, popular shows can queue up 15–30 minutes beforehand, so expect a short wait at the door. Casual dress is fine (the climate can be cool by the waterfront, so bring a light jacket in case you spend time on the deck).
Bring photo ID if you intend to buy alcohol (the NZ legal drinking age is 18). Also bring cash if you plan to tip or buy small items, though card payments are readily accepted at the bar. There is no coat-check room, so keep your load light. If you have special access needs, the staff do their best to accommodate, but the seating is not very spread out. Wheelchair users can enter via the front (which is on one level), though a partner may need to navigate some tight corners.
During concerts the crowd can get warm, so wear layers. Earplugs are useful if you are sensitive to loud music – the mix is good but still punchy near the speakers. Photography without flash is generally allowed; enthusiastic audience filming is fine as long as it’s not obstructing others. Smoking (NZ vapings/emission laws) is only permitted in the outdoor areas or on the street – you’ll find a small courtyard at the back where smokers step out to catch a break. Children are welcome for daytime activities and earlier shows, but most late-night gigs are adults-only (event listings usually specify age limits). In practice, expect a mostly grown-up indie crowd with a few well-behaved teens accompanying parents at early events. The venue clearly bars entry to anyone under 18 when alcohol is served, so don’t plan family outings to a midnight DJ set!
Finally, plan your journey back. Lyttelton’s bus timetable is more limited late at night, so if you’re staying in town you may want to arrange a taxi in advance. After a show, it’s common to linger, but remember the port hills can be chilly after dark. The venue turns off music at 11pm sharp in adherence to local noise rules, so bars may start winding down around midnight. Overall, the best advice is to embrace the relaxed vibe: arrive a little early, grab a coffee or beer, chat with the friendly staff, and enjoy one of Canterbury’s most charming concert cafés.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of Lyttelton Coffee Company?
Lyttelton Coffee Company is relatively small and intimate. It seats a few dozen patrons at once, with additional standing room for more people during events. There is no official large-capacity number published, but the space typically holds on the order of a hundred people when packed. Since seating is limited, shows can sell out early, so plan to come early on popular nights.
Where can I buy tickets for events at Lyttelton Coffee Company?
Tickets for concerts are generally sold online or through local ticket outlets. The venue will announce events in advance, and tickets usually go on sale a few weeks before each show. For many local gigs, tickets can also be purchased at the door on the night (cash or card). It’s a good idea to follow the venue’s announcements to catch presales. If an event is very small or free-entry, expect to just show up and pay at the door or no fee.
Are there reserved seats or is it general admission?
Seating at Lyttelton Coffee Company events is generally on a first-come, first-served basis. The venue does not issue tickets for specific seats. You can sit at any open table or stand near the stage once you enter. If you have a large group, it’s wise to arrive together to claim enough nearby spots. Some smaller shows may leave a few seats free for the performers or crew, but otherwise it’s an informal seating layout.
What are the parking options near Lyttelton Coffee Company?
Parking in Lyttelton is mostly on-street. You can usually find some free parking on London Street itself or the surrounding side streets. There is also a small municipal lot at the end of London Street near the harbor. All-day parking tends to be free unless otherwise signed. Just be aware that spaces fill up on busy weekends and market days. If driving in the evening, arrive early to secure a spot before shows start. Rideshare drop-off is allowed on London Street or nearby Norwich Quay if needed.
How can I get to Lyttelton Coffee Company by public transport?
Metro Christchurch bus route 28 travels between Christchurch city and Lyttelton several times an hour. Get off at the Lyttelton stop on Norwich Quay near Canterbury Street; from there the venue is just a 1–2 minute walk up London Street. There are also buses from Eastgate Mall (route 155). If you’re coming from Diamond Harbour or Governors Bay, the ferry across the harbor docks at Lyttelton’s B Jetty. From the ferry terminal on Norwich Quay, walk over the Oxford Street bridge and up London Street for a few minutes. Bus timetables are on the Metro website.
Where is the best place to watch a show inside?
Since the venue is small, most views of the stage are fairly good. If you want to see the performers closely, grab a spot near the front of the stage area (by the speakers). If you prefer a more relaxed audio level, sitting at a table midway back is comfortable. Standing areas along the sides are also popular. The focus is on a close, communal vibe – you’ll still feel near the action even at the back. The back corner by the bar can be quieter for conversation. Remember that during a sold-out gig there may not be many seats left, so you might stand in the middle facing the stage.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Lyttelton Coffee Company is wheelchair accessible. The main floor is on one level and the doorway is wide enough for a wheelchair ramp. There are no steps needed from the street into the venue. Once inside, you may want to notify staff, who will help find a suitable spot. The space is intimate and can be maneuvered with care, though when it’s very crowded it could be tighter. The toilets include at least one accessible stall. If you need any assistance, just ask the friendly staff at the door or bar.
Can I bring my camera or record the performance?
Non-flash photography is generally allowed. Many audience members take photos or video clips with smartphones, provided they don’t disturb others. Professional cameras or audio recorders may require permission from the venue or the artist (often sound engineers stop recording for technical reasons). It’s best to discreetly record small clips for personal memories only. The venue does ask that guests don’t use flash, tripods or obstruct walkways – keep your device close to your body while filming. If in doubt, just check with staff before unfolding a large camera.
Is there free Wi-Fi available inside the cafe?
During daytime hours the cafe often offers free Wi-Fi to patrons (just ask for the password if needed). However, during live shows this might be turned off or become very slow since the network is mainly for local customers. As a rule, don’t rely on Wi-Fi for a gig – reception from mobile networks in Lyttelton works better for brief web queries. The atmosphere encourages being in the moment, so digital connections tend to fall away by showtime anyway.
What kind of food and drinks are served?
Lyttelton Coffee Company runs a full café menu, particularly during the day. Think New Zealand café classics: all-day breakfast items (bacon & eggs, benedicts, avocado toast), sandwiches, wraps, salads and a cabinet of homemade cakes and muffins. They brew specialty coffee on-site with their own roaster. In the evenings, the kitchen stays open with simpler fare (such as toasted sandwiches, cheese platters or bar snacks) and the focus shifts to the bar. You can enjoy local craft beers on tap, wines from NZ vineyards, cider, and of course espresso beverages. Dietary options are available – many people note vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free choices on the menu. Check on the night if something specific is needed. Note: outside food or drinks are not permitted inside.
Do I need to bring a coat or bag check is available?
There is no formal coat or bag check. Since the venue is small, space is tight. Most guests simply hang coats on the back of their chairs or lean them against a wall. If you have larger luggage or instruments, let the staff know – they may be able to safely stow items behind the bar or in a corner while you enjoy the show. As a tip, pack light and only bring essentials (wallet, keys, phone). Large backpacks or suitcases are discouraged unless absolutely necessary.
What is the dress code at Lyttelton Coffee Company?
There is no formal dress code. The vibe is casual Kiwi style. Most people wear jeans, t-shirts or comfortable tops – practically anything goes. If you plan to use the outdoor deck, bring a jacket on cooler nights (Lyttelton can be breezy). For special events, some patrons may dress a bit up (nice sweaters, etc.), but it is generally a laid-back place. Sturdy shoes are a good idea in case people start dancing. All in all, just wear what you feel comfortable in.
Are children allowed at performances?
Children and teens are welcome during daytime hours and earlier shows (such as lineup events at 5–7pm). For later concerts with alcohol being served, the venue generally requires attendees to be 18+ (this will be noted on the event listing if under-18s are not admitted). Parents often bring kids to Sunday brunch hours or 6pm gigs. Just keep in mind that weekend nights are primarily adult-oriented. If traveling with young ones, double-check the specific event’s age policy before purchasing tickets.
What is the venue's bag policy?
There isn’t a strict bag-check policy listed, but as a small bar/café the venue opts to keep the space clear. Guests can carry small personal bags inside, but large backpacks or cases are discouraged unless you have a reason (for example, carrying equipment). Security is relaxed, so if you bring a normal daypack or purse just keep it at your feet. If you have something bulky, let the staff know – they might allow you to store it out of the way behind the counter. Always keep personal valuables with you, as there is no formal coatroom or locker.
Is smoking allowed?
Smoking (including vaping) is not allowed inside the building. Patrons who want to smoke can step outside to the outdoor deck area or onto the sidewalk. There is a small fenced courtyard at the back which often serves as a smoking zone between sets. Just be mindful to keep walkways clear. The café is fully smoke-free inside at all times, in line with New Zealand law.
Is there a place to charge my phone?
The venue does not advertise phone charging stations, so it’s best to have your device fully charged beforehand. During events, outlets are usually reserved for the sound equipment, and staff may not allow plugging in personal devices. If you need to charge, ask politely at the bar – sometimes they might accommodate in a low-power emergency. Otherwise, rely on portable chargers or take advantage of free Wi-Fi hotspots in Lyttelton (such as in some nearby cafes) before the doors open.
What currency and payment methods are accepted?
The currency in New Zealand is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). The Lyttelton Coffee Company accepts major credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) at the bar and kitchen counter. They also accept cash (NZD) for drinks and tickets. Foreign currencies cannot be exchanged on-site. If you prefer using cash for quicker service, most people use NZD coins and notes. Tipping is not customary in NZ, but you can leave small change or add 10% at your discretion.
Are there any lodging options nearby?
Lyttelton itself has limited accommodations. The closest lodging is the historic Otoromiro Hotel and various small B&Bs or AirBNBs in town. There is also the Lyttelton Top 10 Holiday Park with cabin rentals. Most concert-goers stay in Christchurch (about a 20-minute drive or bus ride away). If you’re arriving late, plan a taxi or rideshare back to Christchurch, as evening bus service is sparse after 11pm. For early arrivals, there are cozy guesthouses on the Peninsula that capture the harbor vibe.
