Events at TOTARA STREET, Mount Maunganui

About Totara Street

TOTARA ST is a multi-level live music and events centre at 11 Totara Street in Mount Maunganui, Bay of Plenty. Opened in 2015 by local promoters Ross Shilling and Jay Munro, it serves as both a community performing arts space and a concert venue (totarastreet.co.nz) (www.davidrdunham.com). It forms the rear performance hall of the Mauao Performing Arts Centre (the music school at the front), so students literally head through the building and play on the same stage as national touring acts (totarastreet.co.nz) (www.davidrdunham.com). Over the past decade TOTARA ST has become one of the Bay’s premier live music venues (totarastreet.co.nz) (www.davidrdunham.com). The hall is split-level with a raised stage, dance floor and mezzanine bar. It is fully equipped with high-end sound and lighting, two licensed bars and a commercial kitchen. The venue’s designers even installed acoustic panels and a professional Martin Audio sound system to deliver excellent sight-lines and audio quality in the intimate club-style room (totarastreet.co.nz) (www.unomagazine.co.nz). At full capacity (both levels open) it can hold about 400 standing patrons (or about 140 with seating) (totarastreet.co.nz). On a busy night the floor may feel packed, but moving to the sides or upstairs provides relief while keeping you in view of the stage (www.davidrdunham.com). In short, Totara Street is notable for offering a full-featured pro venue (lighting rig, backline gear, projectors, even a haze machine) in the heart of Mount Maunganui’s main town area, supporting everything from school recitals to sold-out national tours (totarastreet.co.nz) (www.davidrdunham.com).

Events and Programming

TOTARA ST’s calendar is packed with a wide variety of programmed events and rentals. By design it can be arranged for fully seated dinners or for lively dance floors (totarastreet.co.nz). In practice that means one weekend you might attend a seated dinner-and-show or folk concert, and the next you could be at an all-ages rock gig or an R18 club night. The venue regularly hosts live music across multiple genres – from Kiwi rock and roots bands (e.g. White Chapel Jak, The Black Seeds) to international touring artists (e.g. Gin Wigmore, Xavier Rudd) (www.davidrdunham.com). It also stages electronic dance parties, reggae/dub nights, DJ club events, and unique themed shows (theater nights, tribute bands, etc.). For example, special events like the annual “Elemental” multimedia party or the “Rewind” retro dance night are recurrent highlights of the schedule. There’s also a lively monthly comedy night: the “Mount Comedy Club” runs every first Thursday with top Kiwi stand-up acts (totarastreet.co.nz). Young musicians and students get exposure here too – the venue hosts local band competitions and student concerts (e.g. the Mauao PAC end-of-year recital) which often sell out the room. Ticket prices vary by event: local bands and comedy are usually very affordable (often in the NZ$10–25 range), while bigger touring acts or special events may run higher (roughly NZ$30–$50 or more for premium gigs). In all cases TOTARA ST trends local and inclusive: lineups span all ages, although alcohol-licensed shows bump the age limit to 18+ as required. Frequent concert series and one-off events mean the venue might host several shows a week – it has become a going concern for live entertainment in Tauranga/Mt Maunganui (totarastreet.co.nz) (www.davidrdunham.com). Notable recent acts have included L.A.B., Jordan Luck Band, and the return of New Zealand funk favorites Tahuna Breaks (www.davidrdunham.com). In short, Totara St has established itself as a regular stop on NZ tours and a hub for local performers alike.

Tickets and Booking

TOTARA ST sells tickets primarily through its official channels. The venue’s website event page has links to purchase tickets for each show (totarastreet.co.nz), and there is no independent box office counter – you buy online in advance or at the door if any remain. Signing up as a TOTARA ST “Squad” member (free mailing list) is recommended for best results: members get early access and occasional discounts before general sale (totarastreet.co.nz). Because popular shows can sell out, the venue suggests booking well ahead. (For example, Xavier Rudd’s 2019 Mt Maunganui show sold out weeks in advance (www.ticketfairy.com).) If tickets remain, door sales may be available when doors open, but this varies by event. In short, plan ahead via the website – or become a subscriber for presales (totarastreet.co.nz) (totarastreet.co.nz). Ticket prices and seating tiers depend on the promoter; typically general admission is standard, with occasional VIP or table packages for cabaret-style shows. All ticket buy-ins require agreement to Totara ST’s ticketing terms (for instance, no re-entry/passouts are allowed (totarastreet.co.nz)). Keep an eye on the website or sign up for event alerts to know when sales start, and always check the age restriction listed for each event (most late-night shows are R18). Venue staff also use social media and newsletter reminders, but the official site events page is the hub for purchases (totarastreet.co.nz) (totarastreet.co.nz).

Seating and Layout

The Totara Street interior is a versatile space, intended to be usable for seated or standing formats. The ground level is a flat open hall with a stage at one end and bars along the sides; above that is a mezzanine balcony overlooking the floor. For a seating event, staff will place chairs or even couches on the main floor in rows or clusters – this is called “Fully Seated” configuration (totarastreet.co.nz). In “Partially Seated” shows, only perimeter seating (bar stools and leaners) is used and the center is cleared as standing room – in these cases arrive early to grab a stool (totarastreet.co.nz). Many rock or dance events are “Standing Room Only” downstairs, with no fixed chairs at all (totarastreet.co.nz). Upstairs on the mezzanine there may be high tables or extra seating in some setups, and it doubles as a balcony bar space. Roughly speaking, the first few front rows can be lively dance crowd, while the mezzanine area offers a slightly perch-like view with good acoustics. According to a local reviewer, sight-lines at Totara Street are very good – you can see the stage from almost anywhere (“excellent sight lines” to the stage) (totarastreet.co.nz). In practice there’s no truly bad seat; floor-level fans love being up close, and those who want some breathing room or a mixed view often retreat up the stairs or to the edges of the dance floor (www.davidrdunham.com). If seated tickets are offered, they tend to sell quickly, but usually it’s general admission. Acoustically, the space is designed for live rock: the built-in speakers and acoustic panels make the sound clear and loud. In short, the venue is essentially a flat-floor club with a stage, and the layout can be customized (behind the scenes there’s even an easy way to shrink the stage if needed). Ask staff or the online event description what the layout will be – for partially seated shows, they will often note in advance that bar stools are limited, etc (totarastreet.co.nz). In summary, whether standing or seated, views are fine and the sound rigs make nearly every spot decent. (One tip: in crowded shows, stepping back onto the mezzanine or to the far sides is actually the best way to enjoy the mix and sights without the crush (www.davidrdunham.com).)

Getting There and Parking

Totara Street is exactly at “11 Totara Street, Mount Maunganui 3116” (www.davidrdunham.com), just a block inland from Marine Parade. It’s tucked near the main Mount shopping district (Hewletts Road / Maunganui Road). By car, the venue is easily reached from State Highway 2 (follow signs for Mount Maunganui, then turn onto Maunganui Road and Hector Street or Hull Road to Totara). Street parking on Totara St itself is very limited, especially on weekdays when business loading is busy. After 5 pm or on weekends you’ll find roadside parks open up along Totara and surrounding lanes (totarastreet.co.nz). In addition, the venue has arranged use of several neighbour car lots for event parking: for example, attendees may park after-hours at places like “282 Maunganui Road (Furniture Gallery, 5 spaces)” or “5 Totara Street (Hair to Train, 8 spaces)”, among others (totarastreet.co.nz) (totarastreet.co.nz). These details (marked in yellow on the venue’s parking map) mean you can usually find a free spot within a few minutes’ walk. There is also a drop-off zone at the venue entrance for rideshare or taxi. Some overflow parking can be had on nearby side streets; for instance, turning down Rata Street just off the road is one tip noted by locals (www.davidrdunham.com). After an event, street parking tends to be easy further along Maunganui Road too. As a reminder, Totara St itself is normally clear of any time-limits at night. Public transport is another option: Bay of Plenty’s Baybus route 5 stops on Totara Street (there are stops labelled “Totara Street – Opposite Astrolabe St” and “Totara Street – Puriri St” nearby) linking the Mt with Tauranga and Bayfair (www.rome2rio.com). Taxis and ride services regularly run to/from the Mount (Tauranga Taxis, Dial-a-Cab, etc.). If coming from the decline of the mountain, the venue is only a 5-minute walk from the Mount Maunganui shopping center. In short, allow a few extra minutes for parking on event nights, but know that street parking is abundant after dark and buses will drop you right outside. (Always check for any street *restriction* signs, though; on weekdays the venue even arranged with council for special event parking. At late hours it’s generally free.)

Inside the Venue

On arrival, you’ll typically enter through the main front door on Totara Street, pass through a foyer area, and head into the large show room. Staff will scan or check your ticket and ID (18+ events) upon entry. Security is generally friendly but professional – expect a parking or bag check and wristband if needed. The interior atmosphere is clubby and energetic: down on the floor the vibe is usually dim lights, thrumming music, and the stage bright where the performers are. There are two licensed bars – one on each level – serving beer, wine and spirits. The bars often have some local craft beers on tap and basic snacks. If you’re hungry, Totara ST has partnered with a caterer (Chur!Coal BBQ & Eatery / KEX Catering) to offer food on-site. You’ll see menu boards (often burger, taco or pulled-pork style items) and can buy a meal right inside the venue. The parents-run “Chur!Coal” BBQ and eatery delivers a Kiwi barbecue feel, and members can even get specials there (totarastreet.co.nz). Restrooms are located on the ground floor (men’s, women’s and at least one accessible toilet). According to a visitor, the accessible toilet is just past the downstairs bar on the left side (www.davidrdunham.com). There is no coat check area, so if it’s cold you may want to check your jacket or use the lobby. The mezzanine level (upstairs) contains the second bar and some lounge seating; it overlooks the stage so you can watch from above. If you prefer a quieter spot, the raised balcony gives a good view without the full crowd noise. On show nights, volunteers or merch tables are often set up against the wall selling band merchandise, T-shirts, posters and CD’s. Cell phone signal tends to hold up okay (one person noted always getting at least 3G up front). Photographers have commented that the lighting is “better than many venues,” and one reviewer said the lighting designers make sure a bit of clear light is always on stage (www.davidrdunham.com). In other words, you can usually take pictures if you like – and if it’s a public show, small real cameras and phones are fine (just be mindful of others). The decks are usually controlled by the in-house tech team, but bands often bring their own DJs or techies for special clubs or electronica nights. The smoke/haze machine is sometimes used to add effects to lights for dance parties. Overall, the interior vibe is warm, welcoming and modern – it gets busy fast, and a full house truly “breathes” with each beat of the music, creating the celebratory atmosphere that the venue is known for (www.davidrdunham.com).

Nearby Amenities

Totara Street is literally in the heart of Mount Maunganui village, so all the usual shops and eateries are very close by. Immediately around the corner is the Mount Mall shopping precinct, which houses cafes, restaurants and bars. For pre-show dining you’ll find pizza, pasta, sushi, seafood and Asian options within a 5-minute walk (for example, popular cafes like Cibo and Del Mar are just across Marine Parade). A block uphill on Marine Parade are several good pubs and brewbars – the Redwood Tavern, Mount Brewing Co. (craft beers), and wine bars. There are also trendy small bars and cocktail spots along Marine Parade and The Strand. If you want a quick coffee or sandwich before a gig, the local bakery or eateries in the mall are very handy. For late-night drinks after the show, The Vault sports bar and a couple of late bars in the mall stay open, and taxis usually wait near those spots. As for lodging, many hotels are clustered in the vicinity: e.g. Novotel Mount Maunganui, Pacific Palms, and The Prime Waterfront (all within a few hundred metres). Several beachfront motels and holiday apartments are adjacent to the shopping area too. In general, a visitor should arrive at least 30–45 minutes before a show if you want to eat or park and still get in before the doors. Nearby landmarks include Mount Maunganui Main Beach (a short walk) and the Mount’s summit walkway, in case you want to turn an evening at the venue into a mini-day trip to the peak. The area is well-lit and busy, so it’s easy to walk to Totara St from almost anywhere in town. After an event there are restaurants (many open till midnight) if you need a late meal. Public transport (buses) makes a convenient drop-off along Hewletts Road or Maunganui Road, which is just a block from the venue, and the taxi ranks are at the Mount Mall. Many locals also coach themselves down the main street to the Mount, park, then use a shuttle van late-night service if needed. In short, you’re surrounded by cafes and bars on one side and hotels on the other – Totara Street is arguably as central as it gets.

What Makes This Venue Special

TOTARA ST stands out for its combination of versatility, professional facilities and local roots. It’s one of the few places in the Bay where a budding kid band and an international touring act share the same stage week after week. Many say the venue “feels like home” – friends and family of performers pack the place, and the promoters know almost every face. Architecturally, the mix of retro-contemporary finishes (dark wood, brick accents) and a big colourful stage makes the space feel both cosy and exhilarating. Over the years the venue has had a number of memorable moments: legendary gigs for the local community, milestone anniversary parties, and even charity events (fundraisers like the “Thrift Shop Ball” have welcomed 300+ party-goers). One local photographer noted that the electric atmosphere when a crowd fills the lower level is “darn good” and unique to this spot (www.davidrdunham.com). Totara St also has a “grassroots” vibe: co-owner Jay Munro will often MC shows or chat with the crowd; Ross Shilling, as the sound tech, is friendly with local young musicians. The venue’s commitment to inclusivity (hosting school concerts, kapa haka nights, world-music events, as well as rock n’ roll) reflects Mount Maunganui’s diverse cultural scene. It’s the only place in town where you might catch a Polynesian hira (choir), an indie rock showcase and a DJ rave all in one month. The fact that it’s part of a performing arts charity (MauaoPAC) also means its success is seen as the community’s success – they give students and local charities subsidized access to the space. This local ownership and vision is what gets artists returning: word of mouth is strong in Kiwi music circles. The in-house technical team is known for being flexible and savvy (bands often compliment how “easy” it is to set up here) (www.unomagazine.co.nz). In sum, Totara Street is special because it is a community hub wrapped in a pro stage package – you’ll hear touring bands and neighbours cheering in the same chorus, in a hole-in-the-wall that quickly became legendary on the touring circuit. The venue’s own language – for example, clubbers joke it *really* is a “celebration bitches” inside after dark (totarastreet.co.nz) – hints at the raucous, friendly energy people love.

Visitor Tips and Information

Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair friendly on the main floor and has an accessible toilet available (just left of the downstairs bar) (www.davidrdunham.com). The front entrance is flat; older patrons note the aisles can be tight, so arriving early for prime seats or a handrail spot can help. The mezzanine (balcony) has stairs only, so patrons in wheelchairs or with mobility issues should stay on the ground level where a good view is still possible. As a charity venue, Totara St does try to accommodate special needs – check with staff in advance if you require any assistance or reserved seating.

What to Bring: One person quipped that “NZ music gigs are casual,” and that rings true here. Dress in kiwi-casual style – jeans, T-shirts, jerseys are all common. It can get hot and packed during events, so a light layer is smart. If it’s an evening show, wear comfy shoes (some people end up dancing). For cold or rainy nights, you might put an extra jacket under your seat or at the bar (no coat check is provided). Bring a valid photo ID if the event is age-restricted (many nights are 18+). Your ticket (print or mobile) and ID will be checked at the door. Small personal cameras or phones are generally allowed; flash photography is discouraged once the show starts. Large bags or outside food/drink are not permitted; lockers are not available, so keep belongings minimal. If you need to meet a ride-share or taxi after the show, common pickup is usually on Bowentown Street or at the Mount Mall carpark - just ask a doorman.

Common Mistakes: Arriving just at showtime can mean missing your opportunity to get a good spot or paying extra at a bar queue. For partial-seated events, waiting too long could mean standing all night – remember they advise getting there early to claim seating (totarastreet.co.nz). Also, in NZ concerts it’s customary to wait after a song for applause rather than jabber during performance; out-of-turn clapping is fine. Keep in mind Totara St is a fully licensed venue: if drink-driving is a concern, staff can call local taxis or car services for you (they emphasize patrons get home safely) (totarastreet.co.nz). Another tip: phone reception inside is okay, but if you do lose signal it’s easy to step outside into the lobby or street to re-orient. Finally, check the event’s age rule – for example, the monthly comedy nights are strictly 18+ (totarastreet.co.nz), so under-18s will not be admitted even with parents.

Insider Tips: If you’re familiar with New Zealand jargon, “Chur!” means thank you, and you’ll hear nods to this local cheer whenever something great happens at a show. Locals love to say folks at Totara Street “come for the music and stay for the people.” To maximize your experience: become a newsletter subscriber or follow their social pages, because there are often “flash sales” or local giveaways. If attending a dance event, consider parking up to 10 minutes away on a longer avenue (like Rata St or Maunganui Rd) and walking – those side-street spots are often easier to find. When inside, the best views of the band are actually from the balcony if you want to take pictures – it’s slightly raised and clear of speakers (www.davidrdunham.com). Langauge note: in Kiwi usage we say “the Mount” for Mt Maunganui; the venue is sometimes just called “Totara St” by locals. And importantly, arrive “in a good arvo (afternoon)” mindset: with upbeat New Zealand friendliness, you’ll fit right in at this seaside music spot!