About Basement
“Basement” isn’t a concert hall at all but the lively bar and social space in the Base Backpackers hostel at 21–23 Cambridge Terrace, Wellington. Housed in a striking Art Deco building (a former 1930s post office) (www.ticketfairy.com ), the venue combines historic architecture with hostel-bar energy. It’s known as Wellington’s only true backpacker bar, famous for its cheap drinks and friendly, international atmosphere (www.eventfinda.co.nz ) (wanderlog.com ). The basement club is relatively intimate – mostly standing-room around a small dance floor – and it often fits a couple of hundred people at most. Its charm lies in that blend of history and hostel culture: the high vertical façade of the old post-office still gives Courtenay Place character, and inside you’ll find a youthful mix of travellers and locals. Signature features include the communal bar games, theme nights and open layout (no fixed seating) that keep the vibe relaxed. Because it’s part of a popular central hostel, Basement serves as a gateway to Wellington’s nightlife, giving visitors a taste of the city’s creative, community-driven scene (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Events and Programming
Despite being a hostel bar, Basement has a surprisingly packed events calendar. Most nights there’s something going on: think karaoke and pub quiz nights, free communal dinners, weekly pub-crawls, and live music or DJ sets on weekends. For example, travellers often rave about free pasta dinners and happy-hour specials that draw everyone together (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). One popular tradition is the twice-weekly backpackers’ bar crawl (hosted on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8:30pm) that loops Courtenay Place, letting guests meet both locals and new friends (wanderlog.com ). Live acts are usually local bands or DJs rather than big touring artists; a 2018 listing even noted a DJ “Annix” icon set in the basement (www.ticketfairy.com ). The music tends toward EDM, pop or acoustic depending on the night. Because the space is relatively small, many events sell out fast, but there is no separate ticketing desk – either entry is free (especially if you’re staying at Base) or announced ahead if a cover applies. Recurring weekly events often include themed nights (karaoke, reggae, etc.) and happy-hour drink promotions. In short, Basement programming is casual and constantly changing, focused on fun social nights that appeal to backpackers and curious locals alike.
Tickets and Booking
You won’t find traditional tickets or a box office for Basement events. Instead, the bar operates like a hostel hangout where most events are free once you’re inside. If you’re planning just to go for a night’s party, simply arrive and enjoy – for most nights there’s no cover charge, just pay for drinks. For hostel guests, the events are included in your stay (often advertised on notice boards or online ahead of time). In practice, if a special event does require a fee (some guest DJ nights do), it’s usually announced in the Base reception or on the venue’s social channels. There is no presale system; either event capacity is first-come-first-served, or you might pay at the door. In filled seasons or around festivals, it’s safest to arrive early. (If you need to book accommodation rather than just entry, Base’s bunk beds start around US$30–40/NZD45–75 per night (www.ticketfairy.com ).) Remember to check Base Backpackers Wellington’s website or social media for announcements of themed nights or special parties – that’s where new events will be posted.
Seating and Layout
Don’t expect theatre seating – Basement is set up more like a lounge and club than a traditional venue. The ground level of the building is a communal lounge with tables, a kitchen and dining area, but the true event space is in the downstairs basement. Here you’ll find a bar along one wall with stools and high tables, a cluster of sofas and lounge chairs, plus a small raised stage/DJ booth at one end. The centre of the floor is kept open as a dance area, so most people stand or dance rather than sit. There is no dedicated VIP zone – it’s all general admission. For a quiet chat during recorded music, try the lounge sofas or bar periphery; for dancing and photo ops, stand near the DJ booth. Acoustically, the bar’s sound system can get loud (especially on weekend DJs), so if you want to hear conversation, picking a seat toward the insulating kitchen side or a couch back away from the speakers helps. The only “seating” upstairs is in the TV lounge and dining areas (not typically used during club nights). Essentially, guests spread out on whichever benches, ledges or couches they like – just grab a spot when you arrive. Given the informal layout, early arrival can secure a good position.
Getting There and Parking
Address: Basement Bar is at 21–23 Cambridge Terrace, Wellington , on the corner of Courtenay Place (Wellington’s main nightlife street). That frontage on Courtenay Place makes it hard to miss. It’s just a 5-minute walk south from Wellington Railway Station. If you’re coming by bus, several routes (such as the downtown “Wakefield Street Shuttle” and CityLink loops) stop one block away on Kent or Wakefield Streets. Most city buses along Kent/Cambridge run close to Courtenay Place as well. Those free CityLink and No. 5 buses circle nearby too, so public transit access is excellent (www.ticketfairy.com ). From the airport (7km to the south), you can take the Airport Flyer bus to the city and walk ~10–12 minutes east along Cambridge Terrace to the door. Rideshare apps (Uber, Ola) and taxis can drop you at Cambridge Terrace right at the front entrance (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Driving/Parking: On-site parking is extremely limited: Base Backpackers only has a few spaces, generally reserved for hostel guests (www.ticketfairy.com ). Street parking is hard to find on Courtenay Place itself. Daytime on-street parking is scarce, though after about 6pm most city meters turn free, and some nearby side streets sometimes have free spots at night (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you must drive, the closest pay car parks (Hunter Street, Hunter Lane, Civic Square) are ~3–5 minutes’ walk. Most locals recommend using a Park and Ride or just taking a taxi/ride-share to Courtenay Place instead of struggling for parking.
Inside the Venue
Expect a backpacker hostel vibe inside. On arrival, you enter through Base’s main reception (open 24/7); check-in is officially from 14:00. Even if you’re just here for the bar, you’ll typically get ID-checked (NZ law requires 18+ for alcohol). There is no bag check or cloakroom beyond hostel lockers (guests can use padsarlosk – bring your own – but walk-in visitors should keep possessions with them). Security is minimal (most floors have key-card access), so the atmosphere is casual and friendly rather than strict.
Bar and Drink Service: The basement lounge is fully licensed. It serves an array of beer (including local craft taps), wine and simple cocktails, plus soft drinks. Weekday happy hours and specials are common (www.ticketfairy.com ) – for example, visitors note that $4 beers and other deals are routine. After “kitchen hours,” the bar closes its menu to bar snacks (chips and nibbles only); there’s no full kitchen dinner service at night. If you want food, consider eating on Courtenay Place beforehand or grabbing takeaway. The bar area is open-plan: stools line the bar, high tables and couches are scattered around, and a large TV is often visible for sports or music videos. Restrooms for patrons are in the basement (signposted), plus the toilets showrooms on each guest floor.
Atmosphere and Amenities: During events, expect loud music and dancing – Fridays and Saturdays can feel like a mini-club. Notable features include a DJ booth and sound system (sometimes a live band stage) for weekend shows (www.ticketfairy.com ). Games tables (pool, foosball, etc.) might also appear for casual hangouts. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hostel, strongest in common areas like the lobby and basement bar (www.ticketfairy.com ). Outlets are along walls and near beds upstairs, but plugs can be limited downstairs so bringing a small power strip is clever if you need to charge devices during a long night.
Nearby Amenities
Because Basement is on Courtenay Place, you’ll find plenty to do within walking distance. The street is Wellington’s entertainment corridor: dozens of pubs, bars and restaurants are right here. For dinner or a quick bite before the show, options range from cheap takeaway (pizza shops, fish and chips runs) to casual sit-downs. Notable spots nearby include Chow on Tory Street for curry (a 3-minute walk) and Ilott’s Cantina for casual Indian cuisine, plus chains like McDonald’s just a block away (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you’re staying the night, many hotels and hostels line the surrounding area. Backpacker-friendly spots like YHA Wellington Country Hotel are literally next door. For sustenance, a New World supermarket is two blocks north on Tory Street, easy for grabbing snacks or picnic supplies. Late-night coffee cafes and 24-hour food outlets also lick Courtenay Place. For afterparties, the adjacent dance-bars (e.g. The Meow, Sweat Shop Brew Kitchen, Fido) keep going past 2am. If you need a taxi home late, Wellington’s taxi stands and rideshare services have pick-up points on Courtenay Place as well – just step outside and book one of the many cars cruising this busy strip.
What Makes This Venue Special
Basement Bar isn’t a star on Billboard charts, but it’s legendary as a backpacker hub. Its charm stems from the setting and spirit. Guests often say the biggest draw is the historic 1930s post office building, lovingly restored with modern décor (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Locals note how that old-world architecture (tall columns, high ceilings) mixes with colorful hostel furnishings to create a unique party space. The community vibe is another huge factor – staff and owners genuinely mingle with visitors. For instance, receptionists at Base will often jokingly crash pub quizzes or pasta dinners, so new arrivals feel instantly included (www.ticketfairy.com ). Reviewers bestow praise for the weekly communal dinners and “$4 beer” deals, which they say break the ice and bring everyone together (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Another special touch is the women-only “Sanctuary” floor upstairs, offering extra privacy for female travellers – a feature rare in hostel rooms (www.ticketfairy.com ). Culturally, the building’s backstory also resonates: transforming a formal government post office into a bustling social hostel is a local lore point, symbolizing Wellington’s shift from bureaucracy to a creative tourism hub (www.ticketfairy.com ). Though Basement isn’t known for big-name gigs, it’s made memories in other ways – think hostel-organized trips (pub crawls to Oriental Bay, free city walking tours) that start and often end right here (www.ticketfairy.com ). In short, the venue’s personality comes from its function as both a living space and party space – it embodies the friendliness and quirky energy of Wellington backpacker culture. For many young travellers, making friends on Basement’s dance floor or during one of the hostel’s famous dinner nights becomes the highlight of their NZ trip (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The building has a lift covering most floors, but note that some older sections (narrow corridors and a couple of heritage doors) can be tight. Base has some wheelchair-accessible areas on the ground floor, but full accessibility is limited by the historic layout (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you have mobility needs, contact the hostel ahead to clarify.
Check-in/Check-out: Check-in for hostel guests starts at 2pm, but the lobby can hold luggage earlier. Check-out is around 10am. Reception is staffed 24/7, so late arrivals are welcome (just inform them of your plans in advance) (www.ticketfairy.com ). For event-only visitors not staying overnight, just bring ID (passport or NZ driver’s licence) and you’ll be treated like any guest at the bar.
What to Bring: Think hostel rather than high-end club – come in casual clothes. Pack a padlock (each dorm locker needs your own lock), earplugs if you’re a light sleeper, and a travel adapter for Kiwi outlets. Towels and linen are provided if you stay, but a personal travel towel never hurts. If you plan to cook any time (the kitchen is well-equipped), you might even bring your favourite seasoning or oil, though basic supplies are stocked. Carry some NZ currency in small notes for drinks and tips.
Rules and Etiquette: Dress code is extremely casual – T-shirts and shorts are fine even in the bar area. Bare feet indoors is culturally discouraged, so keep at least sandals on when moving around. Smoking is only allowed on the outdoor decks/courtyards, not inside, by law. Quiet hours start around 10pm in sleeping areas; if you stay overnight, try to keep noise down in the hallways after that. (The bar itself may stay loud till closing, which some find fun, others not.) Illegal drugs are prohibited on hostel property. Photography: snapping the historic lobby or bar crowd is OK, but be mindful that other guests in dorm rooms or bathrooms should not be photographed without permission.
Age Restrictions: Visitors must be 18+ to drink. Unlike many bars, Base allows minors (under 18) to stay in private rooms accompanied by a parent, but they can’t roam the bar alone. The women’s Sanctuary floor is strictly 18+ and female-only. In general, most patrons are backpackers aged 18–35, though older travellers are welcome. If you’re under 18 and planning to stay, book a private room or parent-accompanied bed.
Insider Tips: Don’t miss the free pasta dinner nights (a communal meal and event in one, often run a few times weekly) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Joining one not only saves on food costs but is a great way to meet people. Similarly, watch out for the Twice-Weekly Pub Crawl – you can sign up at reception to join other guests exploring Wellington’s bars. If word gets around about a spontaneous party (sometimes hostel staff will post last-minute flyers), check the announcement board. Also, pick up a map of Courtenay Place and Cuba Street (the hostel often has tourist pamphlets) to hit fun spots afterward. Finally, remember Wi-Fi can get slow on busy nights – consider downloading any maps or music in advance so you don’t burn data while dancing. Overall, treat Basement like a friend’s living room party: arrive with an open mind, be ready to make friends, and you’re set for a memorable evening.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a ticket or reservation to enter Basement Bar?
No. The basement bar at Base Wellington usually has free entry. Events are announced in advance, but there is typically no separate ticketing. Just show up (especially early on busy nights) and pay only for what you order. If a special event ever does charge a cover or requires advance sign-up, you’ll hear about it on Base’s social channels or at reception before the night.
What are drink prices like at Basement Bar?
Drinks at Basement Bar are very affordable, especially by Wellington standards. Reviewers often mention beer for about NZD $4–6 on special nights (www.ticketfairy.com ). The bar frequently runs happy hours and $4 beer deals. Wine and spirits are modestly priced too. In short, expect some of the cheapest pub drink prices in central Wellington, which is a big draw for backpackers.
How can I get to Basement Bar without a car?
It’s easy on public transit: Wellington Station is just a 5-minute walk north. Many city buses stop on Kent Street (a block from Courtenay Place), and the free CityLink loop passes nearby. From the airport, take the Airport Flyer bus to Quay Street, then it’s a 10–12 minute walk east along Cambridge Terrace. Uber and local taxi services will drop you right at 21 Cambridge Terrace.
Is there parking available at Basement Bar?
On-site parking is very limited – Base Wellington only has a few painted bays for guests (www.ticketfairy.com ). For street parking, daytime spots on Courtenay Place are scarce. After 6pm, many metered spaces on surrounding streets become free, and occasionally people find free street parking overnight a block or two away. The safest bet for non-locals is to use Uber/taxi or park in paid lots (e.g. Hunter Street car park) a short walk away.
Where can I sit or stand during events?
Basement is mostly standing-room. The bar has a few stools and high tables around the edges, and there are some couches by the walls. During music nights, most people stand on the dance floor or at bar tables. If you want a quieter spot, grab a table in the lounge area or lean against a side wall. There’s no assigned seating or VIP area – it’s all general admission.
Is Basement Bar wheelchair accessible?
Basement Bar is partly wheelchair accessible. Base Wellington has a lift to reach most levels, and the ground floor and bar level are on one accessible route. However, some corridors and restrooms are narrow due to the building’s age. If you require full accessibility, it’s best to contact the hostel for details. The venue will try to accommodate, but the historic layout means not every area is fully step-free.
What is the dress code at Basement?
Dress is casual. There’s no formal code, so jeans, shorts and t-shirts are perfectly fine. Just be respectful of others – for example, while flip-flops are common, going shoeless indoors is a bit frowned upon. Fancy outfits aren’t needed; it’s more like a friendly lounge party than a nightclub red carpet. However, if you’re visiting right from the hostel pool or beach, remember not to wander around barefoot.
Can I bring my own food or drinks?
No outside alcohol is allowed (it's a licensed bar). Bringing your own snacks isn’t necessary as the bar has basic nibbles and the hostel kitchen is available outside event hours. If you have food from the hostel’s kitchen or elsewhere, you can eat it at the dining tables on the ground floor, but not on the main dance floor in the bar. In general, plan to buy drinks at the bar and eat beforehand or afterwards in one of the nearby restaurants.
Are there age restrictions to enter Basement Bar?
You must be 18 or older to enter the bar (and to drink). The hostel itself permits younger travellers in private rooms only with parent supervision, but under-18s aren’t allowed in the bar area alone. The women-only “Sanctuary” floor is 18+ and female only. In practice, most visitors are adults, and you’ll be asked for ID if you look under 18.
What payment methods are accepted at the bar?
Basement Bar takes cash (NZ dollars) and major debit/credit cards. Since it’s part of the hostel, there are no special cash machines inside – we recommend having at least a small amount of cash for quick payments. Wireless EFTPOS should work at the bar. Tipping is not customary in New Zealand, but small change or rounding up is appreciated by bartenders for good service.
Does Basement Bar serve food?
Basement Bar is not a full kitchen. After breakfast hours, the spot offers only light bar snacks (like chips or snacks). There are communal kitchen facilities on the ground floor where guests can cook meals at other times of day, but at night you would eat beforehand or grab takeaway. Nearby restaurants on Courtenay Place offer variety if you get hungry.
Is Wi-Fi available at Basement Bar?
Yes, free Wi-Fi covers the entire hostel including the basement bar. It tends to be strongest in the main lounge areas (ground floor and bar). It can slow down when the bar is very busy, so many guests recommend joining early and downloading any maps or media in advance. There are also power outlets along the bar walls to charge devices if needed.
When is Basement Bar open?
Basement Bar hours are generally evenings only. It opens around 7pm and stays open until 2am (closing times may vary on weekends). The hostel’s reception is 24/7, but the bar specifically follows those evening hours. Note: it’s closed on major public holidays. Check Base Backpackers’ social media or ask ahead if you’re planning around a holiday.
How do I join Base’s famous pub crawl?
The pub crawl runs twice weekly (usually Tuesday and Thursday evenings). To join, sign up at the reception desk or watch for flyers in the lobby announcing the meeting time (generally 8:30pm (wanderlog.com )). It’s typically led by a staff member or volunteer, and all you pay for are your drinks at each bar stop. It’s a fun way to meet other guests and locals.
What’s the capacity of Basement Bar?
Basement Bar is fairly small. With its open-plan space, it can hold a crowd comfortably in the low hundreds at most. It’s not a large concert venue, so popular nights fill up. If you want a good spot, arrive early. The friendly vibe makes it feel full without being uncomfortably crowded, but don’t expect room to roam on peak nights.
Is Basement Bar part of the Base accommodation?
Yes. The basement bar is downstairs in Base Backpackers Wellington (21-23 Cambridge Terrace). You do not have to stay at Base to visit the bar, but as a hostel guest you get the full experience (quiet kitchen, accommodation and social events). If you wish, you can book a bed at Base in advance; the bar and most events come with your stay (www.ticketfairy.com ). Otherwise, just treat the bar like any other pub on Courtenay Place.
Are there any famous performances or artists at Basement?
Basement Bar is better known for its community vibe than big-name acts. Live music is usually by local bands or hostel DJs. For example, past events have featured regional talent and DJs like "Annix" from Wellington’s electronic scene (www.ticketfairy.com ). It doesn’t book international headliners, so don’t expect stadium tours – instead, you’ll experience the grassroots NZ music scene or karaoke nights, which many visitors find equally memorable.
