Events at 95 Newton St, Mt Maunganui

About 95 Newton St

95 Newton Street is an outdoor events venue set on a grassy reserve in Mount Maunganui, a beachside suburb of Tauranga. Officially named Soper Reserve, this open field has long been cherished by the community as a gathering spot. It spans nearly a hectare of flat grass and can comfortably accommodate around 3,000 people for concerts and festivals. Unlike a traditional indoor arena, 95 Newton St offers an open-air atmosphere with the sky as its ceiling – perfect for summer gigs under the stars.

What makes 95 Newton St truly special is its blend of community history and vibrant present-day spirit. The land was gifted to the local council by the Soper family in the early 1970s with the intention it remain public space, and locals affectionately dubbed it “Brewer’s Field” when a popular craft brewery next door used it for overflow concerts. Over the decades, this unassuming patch of grass has become a linchpin of the Bay of Plenty’s live entertainment scene. There were even times in the 2010s when its fate was debated – proposals to sell the reserve for development met strong public outcry – but ultimately it was preserved for everyone to enjoy. Today, 95 Newton St thrives as an event hub that hosts everything from grassroots community festivals to shows by internationally touring artists, all in a laid-back, beach-town setting. It may not have grandstands or elaborate architecture, but it has character in spades – a place where the energy of the crowd and the coastal breeze combine to create a quintessential Kiwi outdoor concert experience.

Events and Programming

As a flexible outdoor space, 95 Newton St hosts a wide variety of events throughout the year – especially during the warmer months. Live music is the main draw: the venue comes alive with concerts spanning rock, pop, hip-hop, and electronic dance music. International artists occasionally make it a tour stop (American rapper Tyga headlined a packed show here in 2019, for example), and it’s a favourite spot for New Zealand’s own stars and rising talent. One weekend you might find a drum and bass mini-festival pumping (the annual No Days Off festival has become a recent highlight), and the next weekend could feature a laid-back evening of reggae or an indie rock gig under the summer sky.

Beyond concerts, 95 Newton St’s programming includes community and cultural events. Each December, Tauranga’s Christmas in the Park takes over the reserve, drawing families for a day of local music performances, food stalls, and festive fun. Food and drink festivals have found a home here too: the Beast of a Feast brings together gourmet food trucks and live bands, while Gindulgence Tauranga transforms the space into a paradise for craft gin enthusiasts with tasting tents and tunes. In the past, the field has also hosted classic car shows, beer festivals, and other community fairs, showcasing its versatility as an event venue.

Event frequency tends to peak in summer when Mount Maunganui swells with holidaymakers and the long twilights invite outdoor entertainment. There might be a major ticketed show every few weeks from November through March, with occasional one-off events in the cooler seasons if weather permits. Thanks to the involvement of both local promoters and big national event organisers, the lineup stays fresh. Whether it’s an all-ages daytime festival or an R18 nightlife event with DJs spinning until late, 95 Newton St’s calendar usually offers something exciting for concert-goers and families alike. The venue’s openness to diverse programming – from high-energy music festivals to relaxed cultural gatherings – is a big part of what keeps people coming back year after year.

Tickets and Booking

Tickets for events at 95 Newton St are typically sold online in advance. There isn’t a permanent box office at the park itself, so the best way to secure entry is through authorised ticketing websites or the event organisers’ official sales channels. Big concerts and festivals often announce ticket sale dates well ahead of time – sometimes with early-bird discounts or presales for those who sign up to mailing lists. For popular shows, it’s wise to mark your calendar for the on-sale time, as events can sell out quickly given the venue’s roughly 3,000-person capacity.

When buying online, expect to pay in New Zealand dollars and be aware of any added booking fees. You’ll usually receive an e-ticket (with a QR code or barcode) that can be scanned at the gate, either on your phone or printed out. If an event isn’t sold out beforehand, there may be door sales on the day, but this isn’t guaranteed – big summer gigs at 95 Newton St have been known to reach capacity. To avoid disappointment, purchasing in advance is recommended, especially if you’re travelling for the show.

Ticket prices vary widely depending on the event. Small community events like Christmas in the Park are often free entry or gold-coin donation, whereas music festivals and headline concerts typically range from around $20–$30 for smaller shows up to $80 or more for major international acts or multi-artist festivals. VIP packages (such as meet-and-greets or special viewing areas) may be available for certain concerts, usually at a higher price tier. Always check the event details for what your ticket includes – a festival pass might cover an entire afternoon and evening of entertainment, while another ticket is just for a single headliner set. If you’re unsure where to purchase, stick with the official event links or advertised outlets to avoid scams or invalid tickets.

Seating and Layout

95 Newton St’s layout is essentially a blank canvas: an open field that organisers configure to suit each show. There are no fixed grandstands or permanent seats. For most concerts, it’s general admission standing on the grass – meaning you can move around rather than being stuck in one assigned spot. At more relaxed events (say a community picnic or movie night), attendees often bring picnic blankets or low folding chairs to sit on, especially toward the back. But for high-energy gigs, expect the crowd to be on their feet, dancing and gathering close to the stage.

Typically, a stage and sound system are set up at one end of the reserve, with the audience area spreading out in front of it. Because the ground is flat, where you stand can affect your view – if you want a spot right at the front, plan to arrive when gates open. Even from farther back, the stage is raised enough that performers are visible, but the vibe will be more relaxed from the rear or sides of the field. The sound is engineered for the space; generally the best audio experience is near the centre (around the sound mixing desk), though the music can be heard clearly throughout.

Some events create VIP sections or special viewing areas. These are usually roped-off zones near the front or occasionally a small platform, offering a less crowded vantage point and sometimes extras like a private bar. If you have a VIP ticket, you’ll have guidance on where to go. For general admission folks, note that there’s minimal shelter or shade – so bring a hat and sunscreen for daytime, and maybe a light jacket for after sunset. Overall, the venue’s intimate, open design means there aren’t many “bad” spots in terms of feeling part of the action. Families or those who want a bit more space often gravitate to the back or edges, while die-hard fans press up toward the stage for an immersive experience.

Getting There and Parking

95 Newton St is located in Mount Maunganui’s industrial area, which is just a short distance from the beach and town centre. If you’re driving, it’s easy to find. From central Tauranga, head over the Harbour Bridge toward “The Mount” (Mount Maunganui) via State Highway 2, then continue onto Maunganui Road. Newton Street intersects Maunganui Road near Hull Road and Aerodrome Road – look for signage or the cluster of industrial buildings. It’s roughly a 15-minute drive from downtown Tauranga, and only about 5–10 minutes from Mount Maunganui’s Main Beach area.

Parking for events is available, but it’s not a single big car park – you’ll be using street parking around the venue. On evenings and weekends, the surrounding industrial/commercial streets usually have plenty of free parking once the day-business traffic is gone. You can often find a spot along Newton Street itself or nearby streets like Hull Rd, Aerodrome Rd, or Macdonald St. Just be sure not to park in any driveways or tow-away zones (sometimes temporary no-parking areas are marked for events). Arriving early is wise if you want to snag a close spot. Parking is free in the area, but on a popular concert night it can fill up, so carpooling or getting dropped off can save time.

Public transport is an option too. The Bay of Plenty regional bus service (Baybus) has routes that pass near Newton Street. For example, buses running between Tauranga City and Mount Maunganui or Papamoa often stop along Maunganui Road – the stop by Mount Maunganui College or Hull Road would put you within a few minutes’ walk of the venue. Do check the latest bus timetables, as evening services may be limited. If your event ends late (after about 10 pm), be aware that buses might have stopped for the night, so you’ll need an alternative for the trip home.

Many attendees take advantage of rideshare services or taxis. Uber, Ola, and local cab companies operate in the Tauranga/Mt Maunganui area and can drop you off right by 95 Newton St. There isn’t an official designated drop-off zone, but Newton Street is wide enough for vehicles to pull over briefly. After the show, you might want to arrange to meet your rideshare a block or two away from the immediate crowds for an easier pickup. The good news is that the area is pretty accessible – flat terrain and well-lit streets – so whether you drive, bus, bike, or rideshare, getting to and from the venue is generally straightforward and safe.

Inside the Venue

Since 95 Newton St is essentially a pop-up event venue on an open reserve, what you find inside depends on how each event is set up. Entry is usually via temporary gates along the street. You’ll encounter security staff at the entrance – they will scan your ticket (either a printout or on your phone) and perform a bag check for prohibited items. Expect rules like no outside alcohol or glass, and limits on bringing in large bags or dangerous items. If the event is R18 (adults only), you’ll need to show photo ID at the gate. For all-ages events, you might get a wristband if you’re 18+ and want to access areas that serve alcohol.

Once you’re through the gate, you step directly onto the grass field. The atmosphere immediately feels casual and communal – you’re essentially in a big fenced-in park that’s been transformed for the show. At concerts and festivals, you’ll typically see food trucks and vendor stalls around the perimeter. Popular local food options often show up: everything from gourmet burgers, wood-fired pizza, and tacos to coffee and ice cream, depending on the event. There will also be beverage tents or portable bars serving beer, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks (and sometimes a cocktail if it’s a fancier affair). Remember to bring some form of ID if you plan to drink – even if you got ID’d at the door, bartenders may double-check.

The stage will be the focal point, usually at one end, with speakers flanking it and sometimes additional speakers midway back so people at the rear can hear clearly. The entire venue is open-air – no roof, no walls beyond the security fencing – which gives a wonderful sense of freedom. On a sunny day, you might be soaking up rays and listening to live music; at night, you could be dancing under the stars. The lighting rigs and sound system brought in by the organisers ensure that it still feels like a “real” concert venue: expect impressive stage lights, big sound, and sometimes large LED screens on stage for visuals (for major acts). The vibe can range from chilled-out (people lounging on blankets during an opening act) to high-energy (everyone on their feet jumping and singing along). It all depends on the event.

In terms of facilities, everything is temporary but functional. Portable toilets (“portaloos”) are positioned in clusters, often along one side of the field. They’re the festival-style loos – basic but do the job. Most events will also provide at least one accessible toilet unit that’s wheelchair-friendly. Hand sanitiser stations are typically available by the toilets. There’s no running water sink, so the water stations for drinking are usually large tanks or coolers where you can refill bottles. You won’t find a cloakroom or locker rental, so whatever you bring, plan to keep it with you (hence the advice to travel light). Most vendors take EFTPOS or credit cards, but it’s smart to have some cash on hand just in case the mobile card machines have issues (or the cell network is slow due to the crowd). Speaking of which, mobile reception is decent in this part of Mount Maunganui, but when thousands of people are all sharing videos and texting, the data can slow down – so don’t rely on being able to stream or video call from the middle of the crowd.

All throughout, security and event staff circulate to keep things safe and help out. You’ll usually spot staff near the stage and at exits, and sometimes roaming medics if it’s a big festival. If you ever need help – whether it’s finding lost property, meeting a friend, or feeling unwell – you can approach one of the staff (often in high-visibility vests or event-branded shirts). Overall, the inside of 95 Newton St feels like a giant backyard concert. It’s informal and fun, with fewer barriers between you and the experience than an arena show. People chat and mingle freely, and there’s often a sense of local camaraderie in the air. By the end of the night, you may even forget you’re standing in what by day is just an ordinary park – it tends to feel like something a bit magical when the music’s pumping and everyone’s having a great time.

Nearby Amenities

One of the perks of attending an event here is the proximity to Mount Maunganui’s food and drink spots. In fact, right next door to the venue (at 107 Newton St) is The Rising Tide – a popular craft brewery taproom and restaurant. It’s a favourite pre-show gathering spot where you can grab a craft beer and dinner (they’re known for their great burgers and dumplings) before heading into the concert. Keep in mind it fills up quickly on event nights due to its prime location. If you’re meeting friends, it’s not a bad idea to arrive a bit earlier to snag a table there.

Beyond that, a short drive or rideshare (5 minutes or so) takes you to the Mount Maunganui town centre and beach area, which is packed with eateries and bars. On Maunganui Road and the nearby streets you’ll find everything from fish and chip shops and casual cafés to trendy bars and sit-down restaurants. Whether you want a quick bite (like pizza or Thai takeaways) or a full meal, you’ve got plenty of options. Bayfair Shopping Centre is another nearby spot (just southwest of Newton St, about 3 km away) that has a food court and restaurants, though it closes earlier in the evening. If you’re coming from Tauranga’s city side, you could also dine there and then drive over the bridge for the show.

As for post-show plans, Mount Maunganui’s nightlife isn’t far away. The downtown Mount strip (around the base of Mauao, the big mountain at the end of the peninsula) has lively bars, pubs with live music, and late-night dessert places if you want to keep the evening going. Many concert-goers will either head there or to one of the late-night restaurants for a bite. Just remember to arrange safe transport if you’ve parked by the venue and decide to go elsewhere after – you might prefer to leave your car and grab a short taxi ride rather than move it and struggle to find parking again in town.

For those traveling to the event, there are numerous accommodation options nearby. You won’t find hotels on Newton Street itself (since it’s an industrial area), but Mount Maunganui’s main beachside has a range of places: from luxury apartments and beachfront resorts to motels and holiday park campgrounds. Staying in the Mount is ideal if you want to be close – you’ll be within 5 minutes drive or a cheap taxi ride from the venue. Alternatively, Tauranga city has more hotels and is about 15 minutes away by car. In any case, it’s a good idea to book accommodation early if there’s a big event on, as places can fill up with out-of-town attendees. Many people make a weekend of it – enjoying the beach, cafes, and shops during the day and the show at night, which speaks to how 95 Newton St events often boost the local hospitality scene.

When planning your night, aim to get to the area with time to spare. It’s recommended to arrive at least 30–60 minutes before the event’s start time. That way, you can park, grab any food or drinks, and find your spot without rushing. If you get there super early, you can always relax at The Rising Tide or even take a quick walk around the block to check out the local street art and businesses. After the event, the immediate vicinity will calm down fairly quickly as people head off. The Newton St area is generally safe but quiet at night, so if you’re sticking around waiting for a ride, just be aware of your surroundings (as you would anywhere). Overall, Mount Maunganui is a friendly town, and you’ll often see groups of happy concert-goers walking together back to their cars or accommodations, chatting about the show they just saw.

What Makes This Venue Special

95 Newton St isn’t a flashy, purpose-built arena – it’s special precisely because it’s a community space turned entertainment hub. There’s a certain magic to seeing a big-name artist perform in what feels like your own backyard. The venue being an open field gives events here a relaxed, down-to-earth vibe that both audiences and performers appreciate. Instead of massive concrete stands or corporate suites, you get a view of the sunset sky, the outlines of industrial buildings around, and often a glimpse of Mount Maunganui in the distance. It’s a unique blend of urban edge and natural beauty. Dancing outdoors with a warm summer breeze coming in off the ocean is a common experience at 95 Newton St, and it’s something you just can’t replicate in an indoor venue.

This reserve also carries a lot of local pride. It was gifted to the people decades ago, and the fact that the community successfully fought to keep it from being sold shows how much it means to everyone. During events, you can feel that community spirit – locals greet each other, people share picnic tables, and there’s a generally friendly Kiwi atmosphere. In some cases, performers have even noted how intimate and welcoming the setting is. It’s not unusual to hear an artist on stage remarking about the beautiful location or the energy of the Mount Maunganui crowd. A few have been spotted visiting the brewery next door after their set, enjoying the scene – something that doesn’t tend to happen at larger, more impersonal venues!

Economically and culturally, 95 Newton St has had a positive impact on the area. It has attracted touring concerts and boutique festivals that might have otherwise skipped Tauranga. This means local music fans get to see international acts without always having to travel to Auckland or Wellington, which is a big deal for the region. Event weekends bring in visitors, which benefits hotels, restaurants, and shops. But beyond dollars and cents, it’s given Mount Maunganui a reputation as a fun destination for events. Over the years there have been some truly memorable nights here – from surprise encores where the whole crowd sings along, to festival sets that brought world-class music to the Bay of Plenty. Those experiences become local legends, talked about by those who were there.

In the end, what makes 95 Newton St special is the feeling it leaves you with. It’s hard to walk away from a show here without a smile. Maybe it’s the novelty of enjoying top-notch entertainment in a simpler setting, or the way the community comes together on this patch of grass to celebrate. The venue has soul – a laid-back, welcoming character that many modern venues lack. Both artists and audiences sense it. Performers often feed off the easygoing energy and give especially heartfelt or high-spirited shows. The crowd, in turn, feels like they’re part of something a bit special – not just a concert, but a Mount Maunganui experience. It’s the kind of place that, once you’ve attended an event, you’ll want to return the next time something’s on, just to feel that vibe again.

Visitor Tips and Information

Accessibility & Preparation: The venue is flat and on ground level, so it is reasonably accessible for wheelchairs and those with mobility needs (there are usually wheelchair-accessible portaloos and you can roll right in off the street). However, it is a grass field – if you require a very smooth surface or an elevated view, it’s best to arrive early and stake out a spot near the front or on firmer ground. Plan ahead for the weather: in summer, wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat since shade is limited (you’ll be in the sun before it sets). If the show goes into the evening, bring a light jacket or jumper because coastal nights can get cool. Comfortable shoes are a must – you’ll be standing on grass or dirt, so leave the high heels at home and opt for sneakers or boots.

Venue Policies & Useful Hints: Travel light and follow the event rules to ensure a smooth entry. Small bags or backpacks are fine, but large bags may be turned away or held at the gate (and there’s no cloakroom). Security will check bags for things like alcohol, glass, weapons, or other prohibited items. It’s generally okay to bring a sealed water bottle (or an empty reusable bottle to fill at water stations inside), but outside food and drinks are largely not allowed except perhaps a small snack for personal consumption – and absolutely no BYO alcohol. Once you’re in, most events do not allow pass-outs, so make sure you have everything you need (tickets, ID, phone, keys, any necessary medication) before entering. If you’re 18+ and plan on buying alcoholic drinks inside, carry your ID; even grey-haired adults sometimes get ID’d under strict policies. Smoking is usually restricted to designated areas – if you don’t see one, assume you need to go off to the side away from the crowd. Keep an eye on your friends and set a meeting point in case you get separated (the cell network can get slow with so many people, making calls or texts unreliable). Lastly, respect the neighborhood: when leaving, keep noise down as you walk through residential areas, and dispose of rubbish in the bins provided. By being prepared and considerate, you’ll contribute to the friendly, fun atmosphere that makes events at 95 Newton St so enjoyable.