About Cabana Bar
The Cabana Bar is Napier’s iconic live-music venue, housed in a historic Spanish Mission/Art Deco building on Shakespeare Road www.ticketfairy.com . Originally opened as the Empire Hotel after the 1931 Hawke’s Bay earthquake (the first hotel rebuilt on that site) , it was renamed The Cabana in 1955 (after a champion racehorse) www.ticketfairy.com . A purpose-built music hall (“Band Bar”) was added in 1965, giving The Cabana a low-ceiling rectangular performance space www.ticketfairy.com . In its heyday The Cabana hosted live bands six nights a week, earning a reputation as a chaotic, rock’n’roll hotspot – indeed “the Cabana was more rock and roll than the phrase itself.” www.ticketfairy.com . Legendary local publican Charlie Morrison helmed the venue through the 1970s-80s, and by the mid-1980s it was known as Napier’s flagship music club (briefly renamed The Shakespeare Inn in the late ’80s) www.ticketfairy.com . After closing in 1997, The Cabana was revived around 2010 by owner Roy Brown (a musician and former performer here) and a collective of local partners www.ticketfairy.com . Today it still retains its vintage charm – exposed brick walls and retro posters – and is celebrated as New Zealand’s oldest continuously running rock venue www.ticketfairy.com . Its capacity is a few hundred people (it once famously squeezed ~710 on New Year’s Eve) www.ticketfairy.com www.ticketfairy.com , making shows intimate by modern standards. The Cabana’s mix of Art-Deco heritage, live-music history and “no-frills” atmosphere makes it a treasured part of Napier’s arts scene www.ticketfairy.com .
Events and Programming
The Cabana hosts a wide variety of shows year-round. Concerts cover all genres – local Hawke’s Bay and touring Kiwi bands play here, from hard rock and roots-reggae to country, blues, indie and electronic nights www.ticketfairy.com . Big-name New Zealand acts routinely headline: recent line-ups have included artists like Jordan Luck, Ladi6, Dave Dobbyn and Swamp Thing www.ticketfairy.com . Past legends such as Mi-Sex, The Feelers, Dragon and Herbs (among many more) have all performed at The Cabana www.ticketfairy.com . The venue also hosts tribute acts, acoustic singer-songwriters and even international cover bands. When needed The Cabana can switch from club to comedy mode – for example it occasionally runs stand-up shows (a local listing once promoted a “Cabana Comedy Bash” with a NZ$20 entry) www.ticketfairy.com . For regular crowds, cheap weekly events are staples: there’s a popular $5 karaoke night each week and a monthly ukulele jam with small cover (about $10) www.ticketfairy.com . Themed dance parties (80s/90s nights, daytime “retro club” for 30-somethings, etc.) and fun game nights (drag bingo, trivia) also recur. Annual fiestas bookend the year: a multi-band Christmas party and a New Year’s Eve celebration are traditional highlights. Most shows at The Cabana are general admission (standing) and often strictly age-limited (18+), so attendees often dance the night away on the sticky hardwood floor rather than sitting down. www.ticketfairy.com
Tickets and Booking
The Cabana has no permanent box office, so tickets are usually sold online or through authorised ticket outlets. When a show is announced, advance tickets (often via a listing on the venue’s website or event page) go on sale first www.ticketfairy.com . Smaller local gigs or comedy nights typically cost around NZ$15–$25 (general admission) www.ticketfairy.com , while higher-profile concerts or club nights are usually NZ$30 or more. For example, a tribute band show might be $25 pre-sale and $30 at the door www.ticketfairy.com . Any tickets remaining after advance sales may be sold at the door on the night of the event (often at a slightly higher price) www.ticketfairy.com . Popular shows can sell out, so it’s wise to buy early or arrive well before showtime if you plan to purchase door tickets. All ticket sales and door times are posted ahead of each event – keeping an eye on local event listings or The Cabana’s announcements is the best way to know when tickets go on sale and what the price will be.
Seating and Layout
The performance space in The Cabana is essentially one long rectangular hall with a low ceiling www.ticketfairy.com . The stage (about 4–5 metres deep) sits at one end, slightly raised, and the rest of the floor is open for standing. There are some side benches or stools lining the walls, but these fill up fast. In practice, all events are general admission: there are no fixed theatre seats. Patrons stand or dance in front of the stage (often packed shoulder-to-shoulder for a big act), or hang back around the bar and a few high tables. Acoustics are excellent for the size – reviewers note that the sound quality stays clear (“crisp”) no matter where you stand www.ticketfairy.com . If you want the best view of the band, arrive early to claim a spot up front. Note that on very crowded nights barrier rails may be set up near the stage and security may limit front-row access. www.ticketfairy.com
Getting There and Parking
The Cabana Bar is located at 11 Shakespeare Road, Bluff Hill, Napier 4110 www.ticketfairy.com . This is just east of Napier’s city centre, a block from the harbour on Marine Parade. The venue’s corner building is hard to miss, with a large vintage neon sign. If driving, The Cabana offers a small free car park for patrons on-site www.ticketfairy.com . When that fills up, ample street parking is available on Shakespeare Road and surrounding streets. On-street parking in downtown Napier is generally unrestricted after around 6pm, but always observe the signs (busy weekends can be more limited). Rideshare and taxis are convenient: Uber and Ola operate in Napier, and local taxi companies serve the area. A common taxi/Uber drop-off point is right on Shakespeare Road at the venue’s entrance www.ticketfairy.com . For late-night returns, taxis gather at busy downtown intersections (for example Hastings/Emerson Streets) www.ticketfairy.com . Public transit: Napier’s goBay buses serve stops within a few minutes’ walk. The #15 Napier Loop stops at Shakespeare Road (corner Browning), essentially at The Cabana’s door www.ticketfairy.com . Other city routes run through Ahuriri (waterfront) or CBD, dropping off a 5–10 minute walk away. Check Napier’s bus timetables or a transit app for schedules; note that evening services typically wind down by about 10–11pm on weekdays www.ticketfairy.com . In a pinch, The Cabana is only a short walk or taxi ride from the city’s major hotels (Scenic Te Pania, Distinction Napier) and from Napier’s centerised parking areas.
Inside the Venue
Expect a warm, lively atmosphere once inside. Entry is casual: staff may check ID and search large bags on busy nights (no outside alcohol allowed www.ticketfairy.com ). The venue is fully licensed, with a well-stocked bar serving local craft beers on tap, NZ wines, spirits and simple mixed drinks www.ticketfairy.com . You’ll find a good beer selection – including Hawke’s Bay brews – and an impressive range of canned and bottled beers. Non-alcoholic soft drinks and water are also available. The Cabana does not serve full meals – only light bar snacks like crisps, nuts and candy www.ticketfairy.com . If you want dinner or more substantial food, do it before the show at the many nearby eateries. The interior is decorated in retro style: exposed-brick walls, vintage posters from past gigs, low-to-the-ground lighting and neon highlights give it a throwback rock-club vibe. The space can get very warm and smoky (even though smoking is banned indoors), so dress in layers and prepare to work for that perfect dancing spot. Restrooms are provided (there is a small backstage “green room” with a toilet for performers www.ticketfairy.com , and a customer restroom near the bar). There is no coat check or lockers www.ticketfairy.com , so guests usually store coats on chairs or keep personal items with them. If you bring a large backpack or bag, be aware it may be scrutinised at the door or not allowed. Plan to carry only essentials: a small wallet or money clip, ID (see below), and anything you need for comfort. Earplugs are a good idea if you are sensitive to loud music www.ticketfairy.com – this cosy hall can reach ear-popping volume near the soundboard.
Nearby Amenities
There are plenty of options around The Cabana for food, drink and lodging. Hastings Street, one block north, has a concentration of restaurants, cafés and bars. Popular choices include Capriccio’s Pizzeria (pizza) and the Sprig & Fern brewpub – both are about a five-minute walk www.ticketfairy.com . The historic Criterion Hotel (on Marine Parade) and the Art Deco-era Masonic Hotel (Tennyson Street, on a corner) offer sit-down meals and a full pub menu. For a quick bite, a convenience store and liquor shops are a short walk down Battery Road toward the waterfront www.ticketfairy.com . If you stay in town, several hotels are within easy reach. Scenic Hotel Te Pania and Distinction Napier are right on Marine Parade (4-5 minutes walk) www.ticketfairy.com . The Art Deco Masonic Hotel and Expressotel are also just a few blocks away. Notably, The Cabana shares its building corner with Toad Hall Backpackers (a 23-room hostel) www.ticketfairy.com . For late-night travel, stock up on bus fares or arrange a taxi/ride-share in advance: after 11pm city buses end, but Napier taxis are usually available into the early hours www.ticketfairy.com .
What Makes This Venue Special
What sets The Cabana apart is its rich history and authentic character. It was the first new hotel built after Napier’s 1931 quake, retaining that original Art Deco charm to this day . More importantly, it earned legendary status in New Zealand music. For decades from the 1960s through the 1980s it was a required stop for any serious touring band. New Zealand music stars like Hello Sailor, Mi-Sex, Dragon, Herbs, Shihad and many others played sweaty, packed gigs there . Owner Charlie Morrison once quipped (during noise complaints) that if the cathedral bells could ring, “I can make as much noise with my music.” Local musicians still call it a “rock-and-roll finishing school” . Even after 60+ years and different ownerships, the venue’s vibe is authentic – punters often say you’re experiencing the “real Napier” when you visit. As one reviewer raved, it’s “one of the best and longest-running venues in New Zealand” with “plenty of history” on the walls . People love The Cabana for that genuine, no-pretences feel: it’s “an entertainment venue that happens to have a bar” , not the other way around. That enduring legacy – combined with warm local hospitality – keeps customers coming back and makes artists eager to play its stage.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Cabana is in an older building, and unfortunately it is not wheelchair-accessible www.ticketfairy.com . A small step leads to the entrance and there are no ramps or elevators inside. If you have mobility needs, contact the venue ahead of time to discuss accommodations. Once inside, the entire show space is on one level with no stairs.
Bringing ID and Age Restrictions: Almost all Cabana events are age-restricted (18+) and require valid photo ID www.ticketfairy.com . Be sure to bring your NZ driver’s licence, passport or military ID if you plan to drink. Without it, you will not be admitted. Security at the door will check IDs and enforce the age rule.
What to Bring: Bring only essentials. You will need cash or card for drinks at the bar, and your photo ID www.ticketfairy.com . A small wallet or money clip is easier than a bulky purse in the crowd. If you want peak comfort, bring earplugs (the music is loud) and a batterypack/phone charger for late-night travel apps www.ticketfairy.com . Dress in layers: the room can heat up with a crowd but night-time air outside can be cool. Wear comfortable shoes for standing or dancing. Don’t bring: outside food or drink (all alcohol and food must be purchased at the venue) www.ticketfairy.com . No large backpacks or duffel bags – space is tight and big bags may be checked or not allowed www.ticketfairy.com . Remember that coat checks are NOT provided, so manage coats/bags within your group or stow them on chairs.
At the Venue: The Cabana’s bar accepts cash and cards for drinks www.ticketfairy.com . Inside photography with cellphone cameras (no flash) is generally fine, but professional cameras or video rigs need prior approval www.ticketfairy.com . Indoor smoking is illegal, so only smoke in marked areas outside www.ticketfairy.com . On busy nights, extra security or barriers may be placed; just follow staff instructions. Shows usually start around 8–9pm (doors 30–60 minutes earlier) www.ticketfairy.com . If the event is general admission, arriving 15–30 minutes before doors open is wise to queue for entry and position. After midnight the venue clears out; Napier taxis and ride-shares (Uber/Ola) are readily available nearby. www.ticketfairy.com www.ticketfairy.com Finally, respect the venue and neighbours: keep noise to a reasonable level on the street, and enjoy the night responsibly.
FAQ
Where can I buy tickets for shows at The Cabana?
Tickets are sold online through official vendor pages or the venue’s listings. There is no permanent box office, so advance tickets appear on event sites. If any tickets remain after advance sales, you can often buy them at the door on the night of the show www.ticketfairy.com . Check the event announcement for links to official ticket sellers.
How much do tickets usually cost?
Ticket prices vary by event. Small local band gigs or comedy nights typically charge around NZ$15–$25 www.ticketfairy.com . Mid-sized concerts and tribute shows tend to run about NZ$25–$35. Premium events or all-night dance parties may be $30–$50. For example, one comedy show was $20 GA, while a guitar tribute band ran $25 advance, $30 at the door www.ticketfairy.com . Always check the specific event listing for exact pricing.
Can I buy tickets at the door?
Yes, when available. Most Cabana events sell advance tickets online, and any remaining tickets are offered at the door on show night www.ticketfairy.com . Door tickets usually cost a few dollars more than advance tickets www.ticketfairy.com . Popular shows may sell out in advance, so arriving early is recommended if you plan to buy at the venue.
What time do Cabana events usually start?
Typical evening shows begin around 8:00–9:00pm, with doors opening 30–60 minutes earlier www.ticketfairy.com . Weekly karaoke or dance nights may open slightly later (8:30pm or 9:00pm). As seating is general admission, arriving 15–30 minutes before doors open helps you get a good spot on the floor or buy a ticket before the band starts www.ticketfairy.com .
What is the seating layout at The Cabana?
The Cabana is all general admission. There are no fixed seats – the floor is mostly open standing room in front of the stage www.ticketfairy.com . A few high tables and bar stools line the sides and back www.ticketfairy.com . Bands play on a small stage at one end of the hall. If you want the best view, get there early to claim front-row. Otherwise expect to be standing and mingling with the crowd.
Is there a parking lot at The Cabana?
Yes. The Cabana has a small on-site car park for patrons, and it is free to use www.ticketfairy.com . When that fills up, street parking on Shakespeare Road and nearby streets is available. Nighttime on-street parking in Napier is generally unrestricted after 6pm www.ticketfairy.com , but always check local signs for any restrictions.
Which bus routes stop near Cabana Bar?
Napier’s local buses serve stops within a few minutes’ walk. The #15 Napier Loop stops at Shakespeare Road (corner Browning St) right by the venue www.ticketfairy.com . Other Napier CBD and Ahuriri routes drop you a 5–10 minute walk away. Check Napier’s bus schedules or a transit app for times. (Tip: buses usually run until around 10–11pm on weeknights.)
Are taxis or ride-shares available to The Cabana?
Yes. Uber and Ola operate in Napier, and local taxi services can drop you off at The Cabana. The main drop-off point is Shakespeare Road right at the venue www.ticketfairy.com . Taxis (and Uber) often gather at busy spots like Hastings/Emerson Streets after events www.ticketfairy.com . If you are leaving late, consider booking a taxi in advance or using a ride-share app.
Is there an age restriction for events?
Yes. Most events at The Cabana are 18+ (R18) only www.ticketfairy.com . For entry, you must show valid photo ID (NZ driver’s licence or passport). Under-18s are not permitted on regular concert or club nights. The age rule is strictly enforced at the door with security checks.
Can I bring my own food or drinks?
No. By law, outside alcohol and food are not allowed inside The Cabana www.ticketfairy.com . The venue has a fully-licensed bar where you must purchase any drinks. If you plan to eat, do so before (or after) the show at nearby restaurants or cafes.
Is smoking allowed inside?
No. Smoking is banned inside all licensed premises in New Zealand, so The Cabana is smoke-free indoors www.ticketfairy.com . If you wish to smoke, you must go outside to the designated smoking area (usually just outside the front door) and then re-enter after extinguishing your cigarette.
Can I take photos or videos at Cabana?
Casual smartphone photos for personal use are generally fine (no flash please). Professional photography or video equipment usually requires prior permission from the venue or artist www.ticketfairy.com . Flash and large cameras can be disruptive, so the staff may restrict them during shows. In short: simple phone snaps are allowed, but bulky gear or flash often isn’t.
Is The Cabana wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, The Cabana is not fully wheelchair accessible www.ticketfairy.com . The entrance has a small step and there are no ramps or elevators inside. The performance area itself is one level, but it’s best to contact the venue in advance if you need accommodation for mobility issues. Staff will assist if possible.
Is there a bar and what drinks do they serve?
Yes. The Cabana has a full bar on site www.ticketfairy.com . It offers local craft beers (on tap and bottles), New Zealand wines, spirits and mixed drinks (plus soft drinks and water). You can grab a wide selection of beers (their taps often feature Hawke’s Bay breweries) and typical bar cocktails. There is no kitchen for meals – just light snack foods available.
What should I bring with me?
Bring your photo ID (18+ events require it) and enough money for tickets (if buying at the door) and drinks www.ticketfairy.com . Carry a small wallet or clips – large purses or backpacks may be checked or refused www.ticketfairy.com . Earplugs are recommended if you’re sensitive to loud music www.ticketfairy.com . Dress in layers (the hall can get hot during a full show) and wear comfy shoes for dancing. A phone charger or power bank can also be handy on late nights.
