Events at Soper Reserve, Mount Maunganui

About Soper Reserve

Soper Reserve is a laid-back outdoor park in Mount Maunganui (Tauranga), Bay of Plenty. It’s an open greenfield venue – a large grassy field, often used for sports, community gatherings and concerts. The venue’s address is 95 Newton Street, Mt Maunganui (www.eventfinda.co.nz). Originally part of a motor camp and paddocks, the Soper family gifted the land to the borough council in the early 1970s to be kept as a public reserve (sunlive.co.nz). Today it’s known for its community vibe: you might see dog-training sessions, families walking or locals playing casual sport. The field is typically unfenced (except when events are on), with a backdrop of the Mount’s hills. Its capacity is modest – about 3,500 people at a time, as noted for live concerts there (www.sunlive.co.nz). Since 2019 the city council has retained Soper Reserve as an “events space,” meaning it’s purposely used for outdoor festivals and gatherings rather than being sold or developed (infocouncil.tauranga.govt.nz). Signature features include its history (named after Fred Soper, who donated the land (sunlive.co.nz)), flat grass surface, and (recently added) floodlighting. It remains cherished as a local green space yet stands out for hosting fun events, making it a unique hub in Tauranga’s arts and leisure scene.

Events and Programming

Soper Reserve hosts a wide mix of events, from family fairs and festivals to music concerts. It’s known for community celebrations and boutique festivals. Every summer, for example, Tauranga’s “Christmas in the Park” takes over Soper Reserve in early December – a free, all-ages festive fundraiser with live music, crafts and food stalls (www.tauranga.govt.nz). In November 2024 it saw “Tauranga Smoke,” a rock-and-BBQ festival featuring Kiwi bands (Head Like A Hole, Tadpole, etc.) and local brews. The field also hosted the “No Days Off” drum-and-bass festival (Nov 2024), which featured international DJs and drew crowds all evening. Other festivals have included “Vegan Vibes” (a plant-based lifestyle expo, Oct 2023 and 2024), “Gindulgence Tauranga” gin festival (Nov 2025, tickets $69 GA (www.gindulgence.co.nz)), and cultural events like the new Tauranga Irish Festival (Mar 2025, with Celtic music, dancing and Guinness). Sporting and community events pop up too – dog-training meets occur regularly (the Mount Maunganui Dog Training Club now uses the fenced field (www.tauranga.govt.nz)), and sometimes local sports or fun runs. Most events are seasonal (spring-summer) with occasional autumn shows. Ticket prices range from free/donation (Christmas in the Park asks for a gold-coin donation (www.tauranga.govt.nz)) to modest festival fees ($15–$70+). Promoters sell tickets through local agencies and online (e.g. Eventfinda, TicketFairy, Flicket), often months ahead. Big events do sell out: for instance “No Days Off” sold out multiple ticket releases by mid-2024. The programming is eclectic – one day you might find craft-beer and gourmet food stalls mingling with rock bands, another day a local music series. In short, Soper Reserve is a grassy outdoor stage for Tauranga’s varied cultural lineup, blending grassroots gatherings with professionally-run festivals.

Tickets and Booking

When Soper Reserve events happen, tickets are generally available online months in advance and often through local ticket sellers (Eventfinda, TicketFairy, Flicket, etc.). There is no box office on-site; everything is pre-sold or e-ticketing. Popular shows announce dates early, with presales quickly selling out (like the “No Days Off” festival). As a rule, ticket prices vary by event – community events like Christmas in the Park are free (donation only) (www.tauranga.govt.nz), while private festivals range from ~$15 (child/student) up to ~$70+ (general admissions). Some festivals offer tiered pricing (early bird, presale, GA, VIP). For example, the Tauranga Irish Festival (Mar 2025) had VIP passes for $122 (www.ticketfairy.com), plus standard tickets for over-18s. Check each event’s official info for door times (often afternoon/evening) and ID rules. At busy shows, no number-of-person limits at entry beyond capacity, but consider buying tickets early for headliners. Occasionally, a limited number of tickets might be available at the gate if not sold out, but it’s safest to buy in advance. Accepted payment is typically card (and maybe cash for small donations at free events). Always watch event announcements or local listings for exact on-sale dates; most summer festivals go on sale by spring. For free community events, simply showing up early is advised (gates often open at mid-morning).

Seating and Layout

Soper Reserve is essentially an open lawn – there are no fixed seats or stadium stands. The entire area is grass and flat, so events bring in a stage (or two) and set up speaker arrays. Viewing is general admission, often with people standing or sitting on blankets. For comfort at long concerts, many attendees bring portable chairs or picnic rugs. At large concerts, a raised main stage is typically positioned on one edge of the field; the crowd spreads out toward the other side. Acoustic-wise, it’s outdoor so sound dissipates widely – organisers usually place speakers on high towers so even those far back can hear. If you’re picky: closer to the stage both improves sightlines and sound (but can be noisy); farther packs tighter at popular events. There is no covered seating, so no bad seats indoors – but hills or bumps at the back are few, making sight fairly level everywhere. Some events put up small VIP areas or fenced “mosh pit” sections near stage. The reserve’s perimeter has a few trees and easy lawn sightlines; avoid standing right at the very back fence (if events put fencing) if you want a clear view. Bathrooms (portable toilets) are usually set up near the entrance or back corners. A key layout tip: gates are on Newton Street, so for most events enter there, then find a spot or follow signs to the main stage. For cooler nights, keep in mind sound/theatre runs from loudspeakers, so dress warmly if standing still in the open air. Because it’s an open field, late-comers may still find spots along the sides – but arriving early always gets you first pick of front or sheltered spots.

Getting There and Parking

Soper Reserve is located at 95 Newton Street, Mount Maunganui – near the base of Mauao (the Mount). By car, access is typically via Neilson Street (State Highway 2). For example, if coming from Tauranga city, head east on State Highway 2 to the Mt Maunganui exit (Devonport Road), then turn onto Hewletts Road and eventually Hull Road, with signage to Mt Maunganui. Newton Street runs off Hull Road near Mt College. Ample parking near the venue can be a challenge on big event days, so organisers sometimes open special lots (watch event info for any shuttle or Park-&-Ride). Street parking is available on nearby roads (Newton, Domain Road, Aerodrome Road, Waitomo Avenue) but can fill up fast. Paid parking machines operate on some nearby streets and private lots; check signage for metered zones (rates vary, usually around $1–$2/hr). It’s best to arrive early to find free or negotiable parking (e.g. residential areas allow weekend parking unless event signs say otherwise). Rideshare/taxi drop-offs are easy – the Newton Street entrance is the most common drop point. Just tell drivers “Soper Reserve, Newton Street” and they’ll pull up at the gate. For public transit, Baybus runs routes through the Mount; the nearest stop is on Newton Street itself or on Hull Road (Route 27 or 22 likely). Check current Bay of Plenty bus routes heading to Mt Maunganui and ask for the closest stop to Newton Street. If coming from downtown Tauranga or Bayfair by bus, you may need to change at Mt Maunganui town centre and walk or catch a local feeder. If walking, Soper Reserve is about a 15–20 minute stroll from Mt Maunganui Village along Newton or Domain Road, and about 25 minutes from Bay Road beach car park. Finally, the venue has drop-off wheelchair access at the gate, and with the new lighting (added 2024 (www.tauranga.govt.nz)), it’s also easier to navigate on foot at dusk.

Inside the Venue

Since Soper Reserve is outdoors, “inside” simply means the field itself. Expect to enter through temporary event gates (unless it’s a free open event). Bag checks and security are common at ticketed concerts and major events. The ground is flat grass – so wear comfortable shoes and be ready for even terrain (no stairs, poles or handrails). There is no parking inside the field; guard rails may cordon off VIP or sound areas near the stage. Most events set up portable toilets (often in the back corners near the entry path), so queues can form early; women’s toilets are usually in one block or tent, men’s in another. Many festivals also set up merch stalls, food trucks, and bars inside – plan to spend tokens or card at these. For example, Christmas in the Park had local food stalls and even face-painting booths (creativebop.org.nz). There are typically trash/recycling bins throughout, but it’s wise to carry out anything you bring. Mobile phone reception is usually fair (four major NZ carriers cover Mt Maunganui), so you can stay in touch or follow event websites during the day. Charging stations and free Wi-Fi are not provided, so come prepared. The atmosphere is very casual and family-friendly at community events (picnicking kids, families on blankets). At night concerts, expect energetic crowds, mosh pits, and perhaps security marshals around. For refreshments, events generally have bars or beverage trucks (licensed events allow beer/wine, often cash or card sales). Polar fitness or surf crowds sometimes use the field too, but if an organised event is running, that day it’s usually all about the festival. There’s no coat check – if it cools off after dark, keep a jacket handy. Lastly, watch for official event staff and first-aid tents on-site. Tauranga organizers often have volunteer info booths too; if you need assistance, look for staff (usually in hi-vis vests or labeled shirts). In short, inside Soper Reserve expect an open-air festival setting – no seats are built-in, but food, drink and fun features will be provided by that day’s event organizers.

Nearby Amenities

Just outside Soper Reserve you’ll find Mount Maunganui’s local amenities. A short walk from the gates: the John Brown Shell building area (Girven Road) has cafes and a small supermarket. Further along The Strand (about 10-15min walk) are dozens of restaurants and bars – Thai, Indian, seafood, pubs and more – perfect for pre-show dining or post-concert drinks. Notable nearby spots include Breweries: Brew Co (formerly Brewers Bar) is just down Newton Street, and Johnny Danger Brewing taproom is within a few minutes’ walk, both well-loved local craft-beer venues. For snacks, grab-and-go pies or sandwiches are available from the Mount Village takeaway shops. If you need shopping or groceries before an event, Bayfair Shopping Centre (a 5min drive) has everything from KiwiCorner bars to KFC; some locals drive there and return. For after the show, remind yourself that Mount Maunganui is generally lively until late (some bars stay open until midnight or so), but quieter on weekdays. In terms of lodging, if you’re coming from out of town: the Mount area has motels and backpacker hostels (like Mount Beachside Holiday Park and Mt Maunganui Motor Lodge just minutes away). Tauranga city hotels are 15–20 minutes by car (like Novotel or Accor downtown). On event days, the Mount’s beachfront and Domain Road dont’s have any late-night public transport, so plan taxis or rideshares ahead. In general, arrive at least 30 minutes before gates open to take advantage of these local services and avoid last-minute rush.

What Makes This Venue Special

Soper Reserve is beloved for blending community spirit with big-event energy. Unlike Tauranga’s main arenas or Baypark, it’s not an indoor stadium but an open green field – giving events a casual coastal vibe unique to the Mount. Historically, it was private land gifted by Fred Soper in the 1970s for community use (sunlive.co.nz). That legacy means many locals feel it “belongs to the people,” and this pride shows every time an event fills the grass. Architecturally it has no grandstands or glass facade – just the wide open sky and often the silhouette of Mount Maunganui in the distance. This natural setting makes attending a concert or festival here different: you’re enjoying music on the lawn with a sea breeze. Over the years Soper Reserve has seen its own classic moments – the launch of Tauranga’s Christmas Pageant, early outdoor concerts by NZ bands, and vibrant cultural gatherings (e.g. it hosted Māori kapa haka in the past during community events). It’s also known for more human-scale stories: the old pine tree where Fred Soper’s ashes were scattered, or the annual dog-trainer meetups and fitness bootcamps you might randomly see. For artists and audiences, Soper Reserve offers a friendly, up-close experience – performers often comment that crowds here feel personal and engaged. It’s also the kind of place where you can roll up in shorts and gumboots and feel right at home (something Bay of Plenty locals appreciate). In short, Soper Reserve’s charm is its openness and personal feel: it’s Tauranga’s own village green and seasonal festival ground rolled into one. Every artist who plays here notes the sky above, and every visitor enjoys the relaxed “Mount” vibe that only an outdoor hill-fringed reserve can give.

Visitor Tips and Information

Accessibility: The reserve grounds are flat and wheelchair-accessible. There are no permanent steps, and the entry from Newton Street is paved. For major events, organizers usually provide accessible viewing platforms and toilets – check event details if you need these. Persons with mobility aids should arrive early to find routes through the crowd.
What to Bring: Always pack sunscreen, a hat, and water (it can be hot by day). For evening events, bring a warm layer – it’s often windier out on the field than by the beach. Folding chairs or blankets are recommended since seating is on grass. Small backpacks are fine, but many events ban large bags – check the specific event’s policy. Cash can be handy for quick purchases or donations (e.g. Christmas events often still take gold coin in cash (www.tauranga.govt.nz)).
Prohibited Items: Sharp objects, large umbrellas, and unlicensed drones are not allowed. Alcohol and food rules vary: some family events allow snacks but no glass containers, while licensed concerts require you to buy drinks inside (and they may confiscate outside bottles). If you bring a dog for a non-event day, keep it leashed (note one section of the park is now a designated dog-training area (www.tauranga.govt.nz), so be cautious of sessions).
Age & ID: Most Soper Reserve events are family-friendly, but check the notices – some are 18+ due to alcohol (e.g. the Irish Festival was R18 (www.whatsontauranga.co.nz)). Such age-only events will check ID at the gate. For children at free events like Christmas in the Park, it’s all open – no tickets needed.
Arrival: Beat the traffic. For popular shows, arriving 30–60 minutes before start time means shorter queues and better vantage. Locate the nearest landmarks (e.g. Newton Street entry or the big pine tree) and meet friends there. Dress comfortably and use comfortable shoes (sneakers or sandals) – you’ll be standing or walking in grass.
Weather: Events run rain or shine. If heavy rain is forecast, the ground can get muddy, so bring rain gear and wear boots as needed. In extreme weather, an event may be delayed or canceled – watch local media for updates.
Personal Safety: Keep belongings with you. Events can be crowded; pickpocketing is rare but stay aware. Hydrate and use sun protection. If you feel unwell, first-aid stations are usually set up by organizers.
Local Lingo: Locals might call this “the Mount park.” Follow signs and local instructions. Parking wardens or event staff may direct traffic on game days.
Insider Tip: Stand a little downwind from big barbecue or food truck areas if you’re sensitive to smoke. Also, the far corners of the field often have shorter lines for drinks or toilets, so consider starting there. Relax, enjoy the open sky, and experience Tauranga’s own spacious gathering spot – it’s all part of the Soper Reserve charm.