Events at ROXOF NIGHTCLUB, Napier

About ROXOF NIGHTCLUB

Roxof Nightclub is a late-night music and dance venue on West Quay in Ahuriri, the harbourside area of Napier. Nestled along Napier’s picturesque waterfront, West Quay is “a vibrant hub” of bars and nightlife (wanderlog.com), and Roxof is one of its anchor party spots. The club is owned by local publican Chris Sullivan (through his company CKS Developments) – a longtime figure in Hawke’s Bay’s bar scene – and it injects a big-city club vibe into Napier’s more relaxed Art Deco setting. Roxof is notable for its energetic atmosphere, late hours, and large crowds; according to local media, the club’s busiest period is in the early-morning hours (around 1:30–2:00am) (www.scoop.co.nz). The venue is sizable: on busy nights Roxof employs roughly a dozen-plus security guards and around twenty bar staff（plus extra managers）, reflecting its high capacity (www.scoop.co.nz). Inside, expect a dark, high-energy environment with pulse-pounding music, bright lights, and a long bar pouring drinks. In short, Roxof is Napier’s premier dance club – part of the city’s small but lively night-scene – and it stands out as a one-of-a-kind late-night venue at the Harbourside.

Events and Programming

Roxof primarily hosts club nights and DJ concerts rather than theatre or seated performances. Most evenings feature electronic, dance and pop music. Local promoters and DJs regularly spin at Roxof, and themed parties or one-off concerts draw in crowds. For example, in November 2024 Roxof was the site of a drum-and-bass concert event featuring New Zealand artists (Pollen & Shreddy) (www.ticketfairy.com). These events are typically promoted as “R18” nights (18+), meaning only guests of legal drinking age can enter. Music styles span house, hip-hop/R&B, EDM, drum’n’bass and Top 40 hits – essentially anything that keeps dancers on the floor. On weekends (especially Friday and Saturday nights) the club often stays open until the city’s closing hour. In addition to one-off concerts, there are recurring club nights and DJ shows. These might include monthly dance parties, themed nights (80s, Latin, electronic, etc.), or special occasions. Promotions and flyers (and local event listings) are the way Roxof announces its lineup. Ticket prices can vary by event, but most club nights are affordable – often in the range of NZ$10–$25 for a standard ticket. Bars inside serve drinks during events, so the experience is a mix of clubbing and dancing.

Tickets and Booking

There is no permanent box office at Roxof; instead tickets for events are usually sold online or via local promoter outlets. For major shows, advance tickets often go on sale a few weeks before the night. It’s wise to buy early if possible – popular gigs can sell out. Look for tickets through the event’s official channel (often a promoter’s page or a local ticketing website) rather than third-party reseller sites. Door sales may be available for smaller nights or lesser-known DJ lineups, but for headline acts or themed parties the safest bet is to pre-purchase. Promoters sometimes sell tickets through social media or local bottle shops, but online sales are most common. Pricing tiers (general admission vs VIP) depend on the event; some nights offer a small “VIP section” or tables near the DJ booth for an extra fee. In general, expect tiered prices (e.g. earlybird, then standard, then door). When planning a night out, check the club’s event listings in advance – popular nights often have tickets ranging roughly NZ$10–25, and details like age restrictions and door times are announced with each event. If in doubt, call or message the promoter listed for any given event. Swansea best strategy for sold-out nights is to arrive early on the night to see if any last-minute tickets or guest-list spots become available, but always be prepared that some events are strictly advance-tickets only.

Seating and Layout

Roxof’s layout is typical of a stone-floor dance club. The main area is a large open dance floor with the DJ booth or stage up front. Most nights, the crowd is standing and dancing – seating is minimal. A few small couches or high tables may line the walls for resting or conversation, and there are usually narrow ledges or stools around the edges. In front of the DJ there may be a slight barricade for VIP or media, but otherwise it’s general admission floor space. There isn’t a significant “seated” section – even if there are a few stools, this is mostly a dance hall. Sound is loud and bass-heavy, optimised for club music. If you’re attending a concert or headline DJ, the best viewing spots are up close on the floor or near the front by the DJ booth. Those wanting to an earful might step back a bit. Keep in mind that venues like this have great sound but can be very loud, so earplugs are recommended if you’re sensitive. In summary, Roxof is built for dancing: you’ll likely stand on a concrete floor with drinks in hand, so wear comfortable shoes and be ready for a room full of moving bodies. If you’re after a quieter conversation spot, the best place is usually by the back wall near the rear bar where it’s slightly less intense, though even there music thumps loudly.

Getting There and Parking

Location: Roxof is located at the end of West Quay, overlooking the Ahuriri harbour. The address (for GPS) is something like “West Quay, Ahuriri, Napier.” It’s in the Wynard Quay/Quayhaven building area by the waterfront. The venue is ~10–15 minutes’ drive from Napier city centre. If walking from the central business district, head along Marine Parade towards Ahuriri – it’s about a 20-30 minute stroll with coastal views. The nearest real crossroads are West Quay and Havelock Road; you’ll see the club signage nearby.

Driving and Parking: If you drive, plan to arrive early. Street parking along West Quay and the neighbouring streets is very limited, especially on busy weekends. There is no private Roxof lot, so you may have to park in paid or meter-controlled spaces in Ahuriri Village area. In Ahuriri itself (one block inland) there are several paid parking areas and side streets, but these fill up quickly in the evening. Alternatively, look for a public car park (for example, around Munroe Street shops or the Pacifica Drive car park in Ahuriri). Parking on West Quay is usually short-term only; watch for restrictions. Rideshare services (Uber, Didi, etc.) are available in Napier and can drop off right at the club entrance on West Quay – this is often the easiest option after bar closing time. Taxis are also active until late in Napier; there’s usually at least one queue outside or you can call a local cab company.

Public Transit: Napier’s public buses don’t run very late, but earlier in the evening you could take a city bus to Ahuriri (Napier’s Hawke’s Bay Topics bus network has some routes that stop near Ahuriri shops). The nearest stop by walking distance might be on the main road (Marine Parade or Havelock Road). From the city centre, you could catch a late-afternoon bus toward Ahuriri and walk a few blocks. However, because most shows start around or after 10pm, relying on public transit is tricky – plan carefully or use a taxi/rideshare for the return. If you’re coming from out of town, the nearest train station is in Napier city (across the harbour) but trains are infrequent. The best plan is usually to drive or ride-share to the club.

Inside the Venue

Once inside Roxof, expect nightclub basics and more. Entry normally requires a valid photo ID (NZ driver’s licence, passport or PASS card), since you must be 18+ (R18 license). There is usually an ID scanner and bouncer check at the door – the club uses a digital scanning system and ID scanners on the way in, so even if you’ve been there before your ID is recorded (staff wear cameras too). The friendly doormen will check your ID and may pat down bags. After passing security, you enter the main dance bar area. The vibe is energetic and packed; the ceiling often has flashy lights or strobes and the DJ booth is up front. Along the side or back wall are long bars – one on each side – serving drinks. The bartenders are busy pulling beers, spirits, cocktails and mixers. Drinks are on a standard nightclub menu: local beers on tap and bottled, New Zealand wines by the glass, basic spirits (vodka, rum, etc.), and an assortment of mixers. There are no kitchen facilities – it’s pure drinks and dancing – so plan to eat beforehand. Usually there’s a small counter area for grabbing snacks (e.g. crisps, nuts) if provided, but it’s not a restaurant.

Inside, you may find a coat check near the entrance on really busy nights (ask staff) – often a rack or room to hang jackets for a small fee. If none is provided, you may have to keep your coat with you. Restrooms are in the back or side; expect them to be quite dark and loud (typical for a small club). If you need to make a phone call or text, you’ll have to navigate the crowd – there is no official quiet lounge. The house lights stay low, though emergency exit lights are lit for safety. Cameras and phones are generally allowed for personal photos, but the focus is on the music, so avoid filming long videos. Most people just use phones casually (no flash photography during performances).

WIFI in clubs is rarely offered, so assume none – use mobile data if needed. Payment at bars is usually by cash or card; contactless (Apple/Google Pay) is often accepted on card terminals. TIP: plan how to pay (e.g. tap card) since it can be hard to spend cash on a crowded dance floor. Finally, note the atmosphere: Roxof tends to be packed and intense. Even if there are stools and ledges, most guests dance. Security staff wearing cameras patrol inside to keep things calm – for example they noted that problem customers (if any) are tracked with previous entries. In practice, Roxof has a reputation for being fairly well-managed thanks to this system, so fights and trouble are said to be rare. But as always in a loud, crowded club: stay aware of your personal belongings (the venue itself warns that theft can happen if you leave items unattended). Overall, inside Roxof expect a high-energy club environment: loud music, flashing lights, a packed dance floor, and a friendly-but-professional security presence.

Nearby Amenities

Ahuriri (West Quay) is full of pubs, cafes and restaurants within walking distance of Roxof, making it easy to plan pre- or post-show outings:

• The Gin Trap (Ahuriri). A well-known cocktail bar right on West Quay (wanderlog.com). It’s stylish and serves craft cocktails (especially gin-based), wine and tapas. It’s literally around the corner – a perfect spot to start the night with a few drinks before heading to Roxof.
• Shed 2 Bar & Eatery. Just up the road on West Quay (wanderlog.com). A waterfront pub with a casual vibe, big beer selection and pub food (like burgers and fries). Good for a laid-back meal or beer next to the harbour views before club time.
• The Thirsty Whale Bar & Restaurant (Marine Parade). A classic Kiwi pub about 10 minutes’ drive (or a short taxi ride) from Roxof. Trails down the street along the water, serving hearty pub fare and local beers. This is a family-friendly option during the day and a fun place for an early dinner on evenings out.
• Napier CBD Restaurants. If you want a sit-down dinner, Napier’s city centre (about 10–15 minutes drive) has attractions like Esplanade Hotel’s Coastal Kitchen (modern Kiwi cuisine) or seafood spots like Pacifica and Moby’s. Many of these are 5–10 minutes inland from Roxof, along Marine Parade. Just keep in mind travel time and last seating hours if you have an early showtime.
• Hotels. The famous Art Deco **Scenic Hotel Te Pania** on Marine Parade is about a 15-minute walk or 5-minute drive south of Roxof. It’s an iconic landmark and has a bar, if you’re staying overnight in Napier. A bit closer is the Ahuriri Village accommodation (motels and B&Bs) which is a 5-10 minute walk north from Roxof along Napier Port Road.
• Parking and Transit. Outside of driving (see above), Uber and local taxis regularly serve the area late at night. The taxi rank at The Thirsty Whale (Marine Parade) is often busy around bar close time and cabs are available to ferry attendees back to town or to the airport. If you’re in a group and want to go further, sharing a ride to Havelock North or Hastings is common after a big night.

What Makes This Venue Special

Thanks to its waterfront setting and big-club energy, Roxof stands out in Napier’s nightlife. Napier is better known for its Art Deco heritage, wineries and relaxed pubs – so a full-blown nightclub like Roxof is a relative rarity. It brings a high-energy, festival-like atmosphere that locals appreciate as someplace to really let loose. The club’s design (industrial-chic interiors, black lighting, and thumping sound system) offers a contrast to the town’s art deco buildings, making the late-night experience feel refreshingly modern. Promoters and audience members often praise Roxof for its friendly staff and professional management – the security scanning system and video-tag cameras help keep things safe and incident-free on wild nights. This has built Roxof a reputation as “the” place for serious party-goers in Hawke’s Bay.

Roxof has also been part of some memorable local nights. While Napier doesn’t host world-famous superstars (no concert arena here), it does get top New Zealand electronic acts and touring DJs. Over the years, riders and line-ups have included big Kiwi names drawn to Napier’s growing scene. It also serves as a cultural hub for youth and students in a region that otherwise has few late-night venues. For example, during local festivals or the annual Art Deco Week (though that is mostly afternoon/early evening), people will often stretch their celebrations into the night at clubs like Roxof (though Art Deco events usually wind down by midnight). In practical terms, Roxof came into Napier nightlife at a time when the city’s late-night options were limited, so it quickly became legend among regulars. In its 2010s-era heyday it was often packed to the brim on weekends. This venue matters to the community as one of the few places where locals and visitors can dance past midnight under Kiwi skies.

Visitor Tips and Information

Age and ID: Roxof is an 18+ venue (Cane’s R18 licensed). You must show government photo ID (NZ driver licence, passport or Kiwi Access card) to enter. If you’re under 18, you will not be admitted. Treat your ID carefully – if you lose it you can’t get in.

Entry and Security: Doors typically open around 9-10pm on event nights. Arriving earlier (within an hour of start time) can help you avoid lines. Security staff use electronic ID scanners and may do quick bag checks – large backpacks and weapons (rapped or pointed metal edges) are not allowed. Smaller clutches or slim purses are okay, and any banned items will be surrendered at the door (often returned on exit). Roxof has a no-tolerance policy on illicit substances, so do not bring any. The bouncers wear body cams and house cameras capture ID scans, all to ensure safety (as noted by the owner) (www.scoop.co.nz). Always listen to their instructions.

Dress Code: There is no strict formal code, but the vibe is smart-casual clubwear. Avoid beachwear, work uniforms or very dated clothes. Closed shoes or sneakers are a good choice on the dance floor (don’t wear work boots or be heavily plastered in mud). Jackets are fine to wear inside, but you may be asked to remove bulky outerwear to a coat check. Country or sports team shirts are generally discouraged (most patrons dress up a little). Hats and caps are usually okay, but if they have big peak visors you might have to reverse them once inside.

Facilities & Services: Roxof has two bars serving liquor throughout the space. Payment is by cash or card; contactless is usually accepted. There’s a small coat check area in busy events (often for a few dollars) – it’s advisable to hand over large coats or bulky bags so you can dance hands-free. Restrooms (toilets) are in the back and are unisex on busy nights; expect them to be well-guarded by club security. There is no kitchen or food service – you must eat before coming. For seating, only a few stools are available, mostly near the edges. Most wise guests consider it a standing/dancing club. Only use the small seating areas if you really need a break (and stay out of photographers’ lines of sight by the DJ).

Accessibility: Anecdotally, Roxof’s floor is ground-level so wheelchair users can get to the entrance, but it’s not specifically set up with ramps or dedicated accessible restrooms (check with the club ahead of time if you need assistance). Keep in mind the floor may be uneven or crowded once inside. The staff can assist if needed, but overall this is a typical bar layout rather than a fully retrofitted music hall.

When to Arrive: Peak times are late. If a show starts at 10pm, the first crowd is usually in by 11pm. However, the club really ramps up after midnight. As noted by the owner, Roxof’s busiest period is between 1:30 and 2:00am (www.scoop.co.nz). On a Saturday night, arriving closer to 11pm or midnight can be smart to avoid last-call rush and to maximize dance time. If you plan to drink, be aware that Newcastle’s safe-transport options may be limited after 3am closing, so plan your ride home accordingly. Taxi and rideshare availability drops off after 3am, so girls’ groups sometimes arrange multiple rides just before closing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t forget your ID and don’t try to bring contraband. Many first-timers fail to bring ID and are turned away. Also, the club enforces dryness inside: if you’re spotted trying to sneak in drinks from outside, you’ll be ejected. Photography with phones is fine, but bulky cameras with tripods or professional setups aren’t allowed. Another tip: drink water between alcoholic beverages – with this much dancing, it’s easy to become dehydrated. QiKeep track of friends: it can get crowded, so designate a meeting point (e.g. by the back bar) if your group splits.

Weather and Cover Charge: Since Roxof is fully indoors, weather rarely affects events (except perhaps limited parking). Dress in layers in cooler months, because once the dancefloor fills up it heats up quickly. Cover charges apply per event; there is no free-entry “if you book online then free entry” scheme – the ticket is your entry pass.

Dressing for the Napier Scene: Napier is more relaxed than Auckland or Wellington. You won’t need to dress super glam, but clubs here do expect you to look put-together. A neat casual outfit and decent shoes is sufficient. In Waikato or Bay slang terms, think “smart enough for a nice bar.” Drop the slurry and you’ll fit in fine.

Lockers and Valuables: Roughly speaking, Roxof does not provide lockers. If you have valuables (wallet, extra phone), best to secure them in an inside coat pocket or leave them at home. The club has security cameras, but as with any crowded place, pickpockets are a risk. The rule of thumb is: assume anyone can join the crowd, so keep personal items on you.

Last Call and Leaving: New Zealand law requires bars to stop serving alcohol by the licensed closing time (Napier’s standard limit is 3am for clubs (www.scoop.co.nz), though check the event listing). Often the DJ will announce last songs as closing approaches. After last call, most people start heading out; there is often a cheerful crowd on the sidewalk outside. Travel in groups for safety until you reach your ride. The club usually shuts lights on the dance floor at 3am, but the bar stays open a few minutes longer to let people exit safely. Show ID again on exit if you left earlier and re-enter (re-entry isn’t usually allowed once you swipe out).