About MoveSpace – Creative Co-working & Events
MoveSpace is a unique creative hub on Dominion Road in Auckland’s Mount Eden suburb. Established as an artist-run space in 2018, MoveSpace combines coworking studios with an intimate events venue . The venue’s founders describe it as a “second home” for makers, where filmmakers, writers, musicians and social entrepreneurs collaborate. In fact, MoveSpace stretches beyond a simple studio – it contains content-creation facilities (podcasting and video studios) and a recording studio in-house , so local artists can produce works on-site. This multi-purpose offering helps MoveSpace stand out: it’s a place where you can rent a desk by day and attend a community gig or poetry night by evening.
The building itself has deep roots in Mount Eden’s local history. Back in the mid-1970s, 473 Dominion Road housed Raj Bombay – one of New Zealand’s first Indian restaurants – where the owner and her family lived upstairs and hosted dinners, weddings and cultural events for fifteen successful years . After the restaurant closed, the space was leased to various small businesses (architects, salons and the like) for decades. Then in 2016, community-minded locals revived the upstairs room as “The Place Between,” a makeshift centre for tea ceremonies, potluck dinners and film screenings . That grassroots experiment laid the groundwork for the full MoveSpace launch in April 2018 . To honour this heritage, MoveSpace maintains the building’s historic character – for example a mural by artist Aura K now adorns the façade, telling the story of this corner of Auckland .
Signature design features include earthy, clay-textured walls and a flexible furniture setup. The main hall – known as the “Creators Lounge” – comfortably seats about 30 people on a mix of fold-up chairs, sofas and floor cushions . The vibe is cosy and DIY: event hosts are expected to set up and strike the room themselves (e.g. vacuum after food events) . A small kitchen area and large fridge are available for catering or community dinners. Overall, MoveSpace feels less like a corporate venue and more like a warm living room for the local arts scene. Its mission is not just economic but social: by hosting collaborative workshops and pay-what-you-can events, MoveSpace aims to “make art and move people” – a motto that highlights its cultural ambition within the neighborhood.
Events and Programming
MoveSpace regularly hosts a wide variety of creative events. The schedule often blends music, spoken word, workshops and community gatherings. You’ll find acoustic singer-songwriter gigs, poetry and storytelling nights (notably the monthly “Yellow Lamp Poetry” open-mic), stand-up comedy shows, art exhibitions, collaborative art projects, and even occasional panel discussions on topics like climate change . For example, one upcoming event is a climate action talk featuring local leaders, and another is a rustic folk concert by New Zealand artists . The program is posted on MoveSpace’s website “What’s On” calendar, and typically includes several events per month – sometimes multiple events per week – often in the evenings or on weekends.
Recurring series : MoveSpace runs regular series to showcase local talent and build community. For instance, the “Yellow Lamp” poetry nights draw poets and performers monthly, while “Collage Club” and arts workshops occur on a repeating schedule. There are also food and connection events like community dinners or skill-sharing sessions.One-off events : Beyond recurring shows, the venue hosts special gatherings – ranging from live podcast recordings to small theatre or magic performances. Community groups have used the space for things like a users’ art fair or even weekly yoga and meditation meetups.Typical performers : Events feature local and touring acts. In-house produced projects have included Kiwi music talents (for example, a 2023 New Zealand Music Month showcase featured local singers) and open mic nights spotlighting emerging artists. Comedy nights often bring in amateur and professional comedians, while literary events include poets and storytellers.
MovSpace events tend to be very affordable. Many community workshops and meet-ups operate on a sliding scale or donation basis, with suggested contributions as low as $5–10 . Tickets for larger performances are typically in the range of NZD $12–18 . Some special events are actually free to the public (with an RSVP) or “pay what you can,” particularly fundraising or grassroots gatherings. In general, ticket prices are kept wallet-friendly to encourage accessibility. For example, a recent creative sharing night asked attendees to pay $8–15 on a sliding scale , which is common for grassroots shows at MoveSpace.
Notable past events include guest performances, open studios and collaborative projects. MoveSpace has partnered with community-minded artists like Tim Prier (who filmed a series of local musician sessions at the venue) and hosted creative markets and clothing swaps. In 2023 and 2024, MoveSpace organized workshops on digital content creation and networking nights for independent filmmakers, reflecting its blend of studio and event space. The venue’s calendar often highlights its community focus: for example, local activists have used the lounge for planning meetings and grassroots campaigns. While MoveSpace is small compared to city clubs, it has become a beloved spot for Aucklanders who want an intimate arts experience close to home.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for MoveSpace events are generally sold in advance online, and often via third-party platforms (Humanitix, Ko-fi, etc.) linked from the MoveSpace website or social media. The official MoveSpace site and event listings will have “Tickets” buttons or RSVP links when available. There is no traditional box office at the venue itself – most shows are sold out ahead of time or at the door on a cash/bank transfer basis. For community events it’s common to simply pay at the door (or via cash/online payment with a minimum donation, e.g. “$5 on the door” posters have appeared in past listings ). Thus, the best approach is to check the event’s posting and secure tickets early (even free RSVP if required).
Where to buy : Visit the MoveSpace website or the event’s social media for ticket links. Humanitix and Ko-fi are used for many shows – for example, climate talks have free RSVP on Humanitix and creative workshops use Ko-fi donations . Avoid third-party scalpers by buying only through the official channels provided by MoveSpace or partner organizers.When tickets go on sale : Shows often have tickets or RSVP settings up 2–4 weeks in advance. Some series (like Yellow Lamp) open sales as soon as the date is announced. To be safe, sign up for MoveSpace’s newsletter or follow their social accounts to get alerts on new events and ticket drops. Popular concerts and festivals fill quickly given the ~30-person size, so aim to grab tickets as soon as possible.Pricing tiers : As noted, costs vary by event type. Experimental/open-mic nights aim to be inclusive with sliding-scale pricing ($0–15), while theatre, music or comedy performances might be fixed-comps ($12–20). If you’re on a budget, seek out “pay what you can” listings. Students and low-income patrons should look for discounted tiers when offered. There’s no membership required to attend shows.
Seating and Layout
MoveSpace’s main event area is the single large “Creators Lounge,” with no separate auditorium or balconies. Seating is informal: you’ll find about 18 folding chairs, two three-seat couches, six bar-height stools and around 10 floor cushions available . Together this fits roughly 30 people if everyone is seated, though more guests can stand or sprawl on cushions for overflow. Events usually have general admission – seating is on a first-come basis with no reserved rows. For a cosy view and close sound, aim to sit at one of the front couches or chairs near the projector screen (if used). The sofas in the middle back are comfy for lounging but not on the performance “floor.”
Unlike a theatre, MoveSpace has no fixed stage – performers often set up at one end of the room, with the audience facing them. Despite this, sound quality is decent for a small space. The venue is equipped with a modest PA: 2× JBL 610 front-of-house speakers, 2 fallback monitors and a 22-channel digital mixer . There are also several microphones (mostly SM57/SM58 dynamics) and a wireless speaker (“UE Boom”), meaning musicians can plug in guitars or mics, and speakers carry well in the room. Because the ceiling is relatively low and the layout intimate, the acoustics are generally warm and direct, making it a great setting for voice and acoustic instruments . However, if a band brings heavy drums it can get loud quickly; many events at MoveSpace run without drum sets for this reason.
Viewing tips: The best vantage is close to the front, where you get to see performers clearly without obstruction. The very edges near the doors or windows have slightly limited sightlines, so try to avoid standing at the far sides if possible. Note also that tall equipment cases or tripods may block a couple of back seats, so moving forward is recommended once the show starts. Lighting is flexible and usually soft–bright house lights or spot lamps are positioned by the hosts, so anticipate an intimate stage glow rather than stadium decks. In short, to make the most of MoveSpace’s small scale, gather up front or on the nearest couch; this also puts you within range to volunteer for open mic slots or to chat with artists during intermissions.
Getting There and Parking
MoveSpace is located at 473 Dominion Road, Mount Eden (postcode 1024). This busy urban street runs southwest from Eden Terrace up through Mount Eden Village. The venue’s entrance is on the ground floor, identifiable by MoveSpace signage and often some event posters in the window. Being in a serviced neighborhood, getting here is straightforward by car, bus or other urban transport.
Driving and parking: Street parking is generally available on Dominion Road and surrounding side streets. According to Dominion Road visitor guides, you’ll usually find plenty of parking on Dominion Road itself, but pay attention to bus-lane restrictions: no parking during 7am–10am on the city-bound (west) side, nor 4pm–7pm on the Mt Eden-bound (east) side during weekdays . Otherwise, parking is free or metered (with PaybyPlate or voucher). There are also larger public parking areas nearby – for instance, the Eden Quarter car park one block up Dominion Rd (east side between Bellwood and Walters) is under cover and often has spaces . On Wellington St or Prospect Ave (just a few blocks away), you’ll find more side-street parking if the main road is full.Bus and trains: Dominion Road is one of Auckland’s major bus corridors. Frequent routes (for example the 012/014 Mt Eden-Avondale buses and Airport Connector 380) pass within walking distance of MoveSpace . There is no train station on Dominion Road directly, but the Kingsland Station (on the Western Line) is only about 1km north, and Mt Eden Station (Southern/Northwestern Line) is a 1–1.5km east. Both are about a 10–15 minute walk, or a single short bus ride. Tip: use Google Maps or the AT mobile app to plan your route — type in “473 Dominion Rd Auckland.”Rideshare and taxis: The curb outside MoveSpace is a reasonable drop-off spot for Uber or taxi. On busy event nights, the driver might need to pull in to the Domino’s Pizza driveway next door momentarily or double park briefly (since Dominion Rd can get congested). If you’re being picked up late at night, the zoned parking and good lighting make the front of the venue a convenient location.Walking and cycling: If you’re in Mount Eden or Kingsland, MoveSpace is a pleasant walk on mostly the flat. Dominion Road is well-served by footpaths. There are also bike racks on nearby side streets (Bellwood Ave, Burnley Ave), as the area encourages cycling. Note that Dominion Rd has bike lanes in some sections, so cyclists can ride alongside general traffic.
Inside the Venue
When you enter MoveSpace, expect a friendly, community vibe. The space is casual and welcoming – hosts or staff (often volunteers or resident creatives) usually greet guests. There is no formal security or cloakroom; attendees keep belongings with them or by their seating. If you have a bag, you can simply keep it at your feet or on a nearby stool. The venue is generally tidy but not museum-clean, reflecting its “shared home” feel.
Food and drink: For coworking members, MoveSpace provides complimentary tea and coffee (unlimited). During events, beverages may be available depending on the organizer: some nights will have tea, coffee, or homemade treats on offer (especially communal dinners or creative meet-ups). However, there is not a staffed bar selling alcohol or snacks. Many attendees choose to eat or drink off-site before the show. You’re welcome to bring your own non-alcoholic refreshments, and some friends crowd around a table to share finger foods at intermission (especially for community dinner events). The kitchenette with a microwave and fridge is usually unlocked for group use.
Restrooms: There are gendered restrooms located beyond the main space (toward the back or side, depending on the exact layout). They are small but functional. If mobility access is needed, be aware that the toilets and entire venue are on one level (no stairs inside), which means a wheelchair can enter the space. The doorway width is standard and should accommodate most wheelchairs. In practice, wheelchair access may still require some coordination with hosts since the front door might be heavy. MoveSpace doesn’t list an official accessibility page, but patrons have generally managed with a little help when needed.
Other amenities: Wi-Fi is available throughout MoveSpace – members and guests can ask for the network password. You’ll find wall outlets near the seating for charging devices (bring your own plug). During events, there is often a table near the entrance with merchandise or flyers from performing artists or supporting charities. If you need to charge a laptop or plug in a projector, just coordinate with the event steward. Note that because the venue is small, cell phone reception inside is usually okay but Wi-Fi or wired connection will be faster for any laborious tasks.
Atmosphere: The crowd at MoveSpace is typically laid-back and creative. Dress is very casual (jeans, hoodies, artsy outfits). The lighting is warm and the temperature is kept comfortable (there is heating or fans as needed – depending on the season, even a slight chill in winter). The interior decor may vary slightly by event (host groups sometimes rearrange furniture or put up themed decorations), but you can expect artsy posters and DIY flair on the walls most of the time. If you’re attending a show, you’ll likely hear a mix of conversation, music, and laughter. The overall feeling is more like hanging out at a friend’s workshop than a formal performance hall.
Nearby Amenities
Given its location on Dominion Road, MoveSpace is surrounded by eateries and services. For pre-show meals or coffee, consider these nearby options:
Cafés & Breakfast: Just a block away at 257 Dominion Rd is Te-Shan Cafe (Thai-inspired cafe) for herbal teas and brunch, and at 291 Dominion Rd is Eden Noodles Cafe (cheap and tasty Asian fare). The famous Croft bakery is one block south on Dominion (corner of Mt Eden Rd) for pastries and sandwiches. For coffee, Upper Casual or a Starbucks are a short walk south down Dominion Road.Restaurants: Dominion Road is known for its international cuisine. Within 5–10 minutes walk you’ll find Indian curries (like Naan & Beyond), Turkish kebabs (Paasha), pizza (Domino’s is right next door), and East Asian spots (Chartique, Odettes Eatery). If you prefer New Zealand-style pub food, head west to The Dominion hotel (southwest corner at 229 Dominion Rd) which serves fish and chips and has a window bar.Bars and live music: There are a couple of bars in the area. Moose Lodge on Baldwin Avenue (about 600m west, near Mount Albert Rd) has craft beer and occasional live bands. The Hop Garden brewpub on Union Street (toward Eden Terrace) is a 5–10 min drive away if you want beers or gourmet burgers after a show. Within a 15-min walk, Kingsland has nightlife too (Caribbean, bars, clubs) for late-night afterparties.Hotels & Stay: Mount Eden itself doesn’t have major hotels, but there are several B&Bs and small lodgings nearby. The closest large hotel is the Crowne Plaza or Ibis on Symonds St in Eden Terrace (about 2km north), a 5–10 minute drive. For backpackers, the Waikiki Backpackers is in Parnell (around 5km east). If attending an all-day event, consider booking in central Auckland (10–15 min drive) where there are many hotel choices.After-hours transport: Late-night buses still run along Dominion Rd (routes often labeled “all night” or route 22/28 past midnight). Uber and taxis serve the area 24/7 – set pickup at “473 Dominion Rd, Mt Eden”. The walks after dark are generally safe, but you might want to stick to lit streets. If you plan to stay late, check Google Maps for the last bus times (usually around 11pm–12am) or have an Uber app handy.
What Makes This Venue Special
MoveSpace’s charm comes from its blend of history, intimacy and community spirit. Architecturally, it’s a classic low-rise shopfront on Dominion Road, but the interiorservo are distinctly creative. The space retains traces of its past life (you can still sense the old restaurant layout in the brick-over fireplace corner), yet it’s been lovingly rebuilt as a collaborative studio. Earth plaster walls and original exposed brick give it character – in fact, the founders had local artists volunteer to restore cracked walls with clay plaster and murals, giving the loft a handmade warmth . This personal touch means no two events feel the same: often there’s fresh art on the walls or unique seating arrangements.
Historically, MoveSpace forms a living link between Mount Eden’s past and present. By operating on the land of the historic Maori iwi (Wai-o-hua/Ngāti Whātua) and carrying on the social tradition of Raj Bombay’s gatherings, it connects eras. Visitors note that attending a show here is like stepping into a social experiment turned success: it’s small enough that on any given night you might chat with the founder or join a circle of creators brainstorming ideas during intermission. That grassroots, inclusive vibe – where anyone from schoolteachers to startup founders to touring poets can mingle – is what artists and audiences say keeps coming back.
In terms of technical capability, MoveSpace punches above its weight given its size. The fully serviced lounge can handle a surprising range of productions: sound engineers run the Yamaha 22-channel mixer and JBL speakers for live bands, projection equipment can be arranged for film screenings, and even models or photographers can rent the studio for shoots (they offer backdrops and professional lighting in their content studio). The combination of event gear and coworking tools (whiteboards, post-it notes, fast Wi-Fi) caters to both the party planner and the entrepreneur. It’s this flexibility – one day a poetry slam, the next day a product launch meeting – that makes MoveSpace a creative “Swiss Army knife” for the neighbourhood.
All of these factors – warm community feel, historical roots, and full studio capabilities – make MoveSpace beloved by artists. Local performers often pick it over larger venues when they want a close-knit audience. Community organizers appreciate that the space is affordable (MoveSpace consciously avoids heavy commercial markups) and that it fosters genuine grassroots connection. For audiences, the pay-what-you-can pricing and the chance to meet the artists after a show give it a democratic, down-to-earth reputation. In short, MoveSpace is special because it’s not just a venue; it’s a community living room for Mount Eden’s creative scene.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The entrance to MoveSpace is at street level, with step-free access into the main hall. While there are no large ramps, the front entry has a small threshold that a wheelchair can manage with assistance. Inside, the floors are flat throughout. There are no elevators (only one floor exists), so anyone with mobility needs should find the door easily usable or request help opening it. Note that the restrooms are standard size and not specifically wheelchair-equipped, so thrillers users may want to plan accordingly.
What to Bring: Unless specified by an event, you generally don’t need to bring anything special. A small bag or coat is fine. If you’re tech-savvy, bring a laptop or device charged – free Wi-Fi is available. For networking or workshop events, a notebook and pen are good ideas. If the event is an open-mic or jam session, you can bring a guitar or instrument (MoveSpace has instrument cables and a DI box). Since seating is casual, some attendees even bring their own cushion or mat for extra comfort. One practical tip: keep some cash just in case (for on-the-door tickets, donations, or small purchases like a coffee or snack). Not all vendors can take card payments in this old shop, so carrying a few dollars is wise.
Age and Dress: MoveSpace events tend to be all-ages unless clearly stated (some late-night comedy or “cabaret” music shows may be 18+). Family-friendly workshops or kids’ craft nights do occasionally happen, but most public shows encourage adult attendees. There is generally no strict dress code: attendees range from very casual (jeans and tees) to bohemian creative outfits. A common NZ phrase applies – come however you like, just be ready to mingle and maybe sit on the floor for a stretch of time. In winter months it can get chilly when doors open, so bring a warm layer; in summer the space gets mellow and airy.
Mistakes to Avoid: A common hiccup is arriving too late. Because MoveSpace is small, seats fill up quickly. The door times are usually printed on event listings, but it’s safest to be there a bit early (5–10 minutes before “doors open”) if you want to grab the best seats. Another tip: check if an event is fully booked online. If a ticket listing says “sold out,” the venue usually won’t accept people at the door, as capacity is strictly limited. Also, note that the kitchen area is communal – if you use cups or utensils during an event, hosts politely ask you to wash and put them away before leaving (the slogan is “leave it better than you found it” ).
Enhanced Experience: To get the most out of your visit, consider engaging with the community. Introduce yourself at events (“I work on [field], I’m here for X”). Many nights have a “community break” or attendee introductions segment – don’t shy away from sharing what you’re working on. Bringing a dish to share at potluck-style dinners is always appreciated. If you’re a performing artist, check if you can sign up for open mic spots or run a brief workshop in your field. The more you participate, the more you’ll find MoveSpace rewards newcomers with inclusion. Finally, since this isn’t a theaters, it can feel intimate if you chat with strangers before the show – by all means, relax, grab a tea, and make new friends. The whole point of MoveSpace is its collaborative ethos: treat it like a friendly community meetup, not a formal concert.
How do I buy tickets for an event at MoveSpace?
Tickets are usually purchased online in advance. Check the MoveSpace website or their social media for the specific event listing; tickets (or RSVP links) will be provided there. Some shows sell out quickly due to limited seating, so it’s best to book as soon as they go on sale. For smaller gatherings, events may allow payment at the door (cash or bank transfer) with a suggested donation.
What are typical ticket prices at MoveSpace?
Most events at MoveSpace are very affordable. Community evenings and workshops often use a sliding-scale fee (for example, about $8–15 NZD suggested). Formal performances or booking nights usually charge a flat rate, typically in the range of $12–18 NZD. Some events are free or donation-based, especially community dinners or charity talks.
Is there a box office at the venue?
No, MoveSpace does not have a traditional box office. All ticket sales are handled in advance or online. A few events do sometimes offer tickets at the door if not sold out, but you should not count on walk-in sales for popular shows. Always secure your ticket through the official channels listed for each event.
What is the best way to get to MoveSpace by public transport?
Dominion Road is a main bus corridor in Auckland. Numerous bus routes run along Dominion Rd near MoveSpace (e.g. routes 012/014 Mt Eden–Avondale and many city buses). Look up “473 Dominion Road” in the AT Mobile app or Google Maps for exact bus line options from your area. The nearest train station is Kingsland (about 1 km north); from there you can catch a bus or walk.
Is parking available near MoveSpace?
Yes, street parking on Dominion Road and nearby streets is generally available. Be mindful of the bus-lane parking rules during rush hours (no parking on Dominion Rd during 7–10 am and 4–7 pm in the active bus-lane direction). Outside of those times parking is usually free. There are also public parking areas on side roads like Bellevue, Walters or Burnley Avenue a short walk away.
Where are the best places to sit or stand at MoveSpace?
Since MoveSpace is a small open-plan room, the “stage” end is clearly defined each event. For the best experience, try to get a front-row seat on the foldable chairs or sofas nearest the performers. The couches in the front-middle or the chairs right in front are ideal for sight and sound. The back row (couches at the rear) is cozier but further from the action. Standing around the sides or back will also work if seating is full, but avoid blocking any exit paths.
Are the shows at MoveSpace open to all ages?
Many events are family-friendly, but it depends on the specific show. Workshops, community feasts and folk music nights are generally all-ages. Certain comedy acts or late-night performances may be 18+ (this will be noted on the event poster or listing). There is no formal ID check at the door, but organizers may restrict access to minors if needed.
Can I bring my own food or drinks?
MoveSpace allows non-alcoholic food and drink. For coworking members, coffee and tea are provided. At events, sometimes hosts offer complimentary tea/coffee or finger foods. You can definitely bring a water bottle or picnic-style snack (especially if participating in a communal dinner event). However, outside alcohol is generally discouraged since MoveSpace typically does not have licensing. If in doubt, check the specific event info or email the organizers.
Is there a coat check or storage?
No formal coat check is provided. There are a couple of coat racks by the entrance where you can hang jackets if needed, but space is limited. Most attendees keep their bags and coats at their chairs. Because the room is compact, it’s best to travel light. If you do have extra bags, try to tuck them neatly behind or beside your seat to avoid blocking walkways.
Does MoveSpace have wheelchair access?
MoveSpace is on a single ground-level floor and generally accessible. The front entry has a small step (less than an inch) which is manageable for most wheelchairs (hosts will help prop open the door). Inside, the room is flat and spacious enough between furniture. The only limitation is the restroom – it is not a full-size accessible toilet. If you require full accessibility, it’s a good idea to contact MoveSpace in advance; they have often accommodated patrons with mild mobility needs.
Are there nearby food and drink options?
Yes – Dominion Road is known for its variety of cafes and restaurants. Within a block or two you’ll find casual cafes (like Croft for pastries or Te-Shan for Thai café food), takeaway sushi and noodles, and laid-back restaurants (Paasha Turkish, Indian curry places, pizza spots). A few bars in walking distance will serve coffee, beer or wine if you want a drink. In short, you can easily grab a meal or snack nearby either before or after an event.
