About Crowded House Bar & Eatery
Crowded House Bar & Eatery is a lively, long-established restaurant and pub in central New Plymouth. Opened in 1997, it has become a local icon known for its friendly, relaxed vibe and hearty Kiwi pub fare (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.taranaki.co.nz ). The owners describe Crowded House as a place for “sharing good times with colleagues, mates, and family” (www.taranaki.co.nz ). With decor that’s warm and wood-accented, it feels like a casual, inviting community hub (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.taranaki.co.nz ). It’s often called “Crowdy” by locals, and it prides itself on blending roles – at midday it’s a family-friendly eatery serving big portions (think slow-cooked ribs, mega burgers and salads (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com )), and by night it turns into a sports bar and nightclub with music and DJs (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Throughout its decades in business, Crowded House has picked up several hospitality awards (for example winning Taranaki’s “Outstanding Sports Bar” titles and a 2019 Chamber of Commerce Hospitality Excellence Award) (crowdedhouse.co.nz ) (www.trfu.co.nz ). Its location on Devon Street East – right at the heart of the city – also helps it stand out as a go-to spot where old friends, family-groups and rugby fans all mix under one roof (www.trfu.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Events and Programming
Crowded House hosts a broad mix of entertainment to suit different crowds. On game days the many large high-definition screens broadcast live sports (rugby, cricket, soccer, etc.) so fans never miss a moment (www.ticketfairy.com ). Themed nights are a regular draw: for example, there are weekly quiz evenings, “Burger & Brew” deals on Tuesdays and a “Fish ’n’ Chips + Brew” special on Fridays, plus seasonal promotions like the popular all-day “Mad Friday” events (crowdedhouse.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Come weekends, the venue often books local or regional live music and DJs. Acts range from indie-rock bands and reggae groups to funk or electronic DJs – recent lineups have included Taranaki indie nights with cover charges around NZ$20–30 (www.ticketfairy.com ). Most live shows and DJ dance nights are age-restricted (18+) and have a cover charge; for instance, a 2025 “Indie Friday” party charged about $20 in advance or $30 at the door (www.ticketfairy.com ). Other regular events include family-friendly specials early in the evening. One unique annual highlight is the “Bikes, BBQ & Hot Cars” street party held in summer, where Devon Street is closed off and lined with classic cars and bikes accompanied by live music and BBQ food stalls (www.ticketfairy.com ). Crowded House also sponsors and co-hosts larger community events – for example, it co-presented a charity boxing show (“Taranaki Explosion”) in 2024 (www.ticketfairy.com ). In short, whether it’s catching a game, joining a themed party or dancing to live music, Crowded House has something happening most nights of the week.
Tickets and Booking
For normal dining and casual sports viewing, no advance booking or ticket is required – you can simply walk in when you please. For special events (live music gigs, DJ nights, fundraisers), tickets are generally sold through promoters or local ticketing sites rather than at a box office. Common outlets include Eventfinda or UnderTheRadar, or through Crowded House’s own social media updates (www.ticketfairy.com ). Typically you can also buy tickets at the door if an event isn’t sold out. There’s no physical box office office on-site, so it’s wise to watch community listings and the Crowded House Facebook or Instagram for announcements. Popular shows (especially Friday/Saturday concerts) can sell out well in advance, so it’s best to grab tickets early. As an example of pricing, local band nights usually charge cover costs in the NZ$10–30 range (www.ticketfairy.com ) (with cheaper early-bird tickets and higher door prices as is common). If in doubt, call the bar or check a local event page – the staff can often assist with booking a spot or point you to the right seller.
Seating and Layout
The interior layout at Crowded House is informal and open-plan. At the front is a roomy dining area with many tables and chairs, plus a long hardwood bar lined with high stools (www.ticketfairy.com ). Toward the back is the entertainment section: a partially cleared dance floor or standing area directly facing a small stage and DJ booth (www.ticketfairy.com ). Seating along the sides (banquettes and booths) overlooks this performance area, so you can still watch the show while seated. In practice there is no fixed seating chart – almost all live events are general admission. For loud concerts or DJ nights, the action is centered on the rear dance floor, which offers the best proximity to sound and lights (www.ticketfairy.com ). However seating at side tables or even at the bar can be a good choice if you prefer to sit or hear conversations. The bar counter provides a full view of the room and the TV screens (for sports), though it can feel crowded at peak times. There are no upper balconies – the entire venue is on one main level. Note that the club-style sound system is fairly loud and booming, which adds to the energy (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you’re sensitive to volume, sitting a few metres from the speakers or choosing a corner table is advisable. In general, if you want the best view for a live gig, arrive early to stake out floor space; otherwise a seat at the bar or booth will still let you enjoy the show and slip out quietly if needed.
Getting There and Parking
Crowded House is located at 93–99 Devon Street East (at the corner of Hobson Street) in New Plymouth’s central business district (www.ticketfairy.com ). This means it’s very close to the waterfront and other downtown attractions. For public transit, most New Plymouth Citylink buses pass near Devon Street. The main city interchange on Liardet Street (off Devon) is only a few blocks away (www.ticketfairy.com ). In practice you can usually catch a bus to one of the nearby stops on Devon Street and walk a couple of minutes. The inter-city coach terminal (for long-distance buses) is also right across town from the venue (about a 3–5 minute walk). If flying in, the domestic airport in Bell Block is about 10km north; taxis or rideshare vans (Uber, Zoomy, etc.) can drop you off right at the Crowded House entrance (www.ticketfairy.com ). For drivers, on-street parking in the CBD tends to have 2-hour limits, so it can fill up on busy nights. Nearby public car parks (for example the “No. 2 Central” lot on Powderham Street) provide short-term parking – often with the first two hours free (www.ticketfairy.com ). Egmont Street and nearby lots offer similar free/free-short-term spots, but after that you must pay. If you plan to stay late into the evening, you may need to move or pay for longer-term parking. As a tip, arriving early for big events lets you snag a curbside spot; carpooling or taxis are smart on weekend nights. The venue is also easily reachable on foot from most central hotels or the coastal waterfront walkway.
Inside the Venue
Stepping inside Crowded House, expect a bustling yet friendly pub atmosphere. The main entrance often has a host or bouncer (especially on event nights) checking IDs for anyone who looks under 25 (www.ticketfairy.com ), since all late-evening events are 18+ (so be prepared with ID even if you clearly look older). The staff tends to know many regulars by name, and service is fast. If you have a reservation for dinner, they’ll seat you promptly at a table; otherwise you can look around for any free table or sit at the bar. The bar area is the hub: you can order drinks or food there, and it’s typically open at all times during business hours. Methods of payment are flexible – the bartenders accept credit and debit cards as well as cash (www.ticketfairy.com ). The venue also offers free Wi-Fi for guests (www.ticketfairy.com ), which is handy for checking schedules or messaging friends, though cell signal can be spotty inside due to the thick walls (www.ticketfairy.com ).
The food menu at Crowded House runs all day. In the morning they serve a cafe-style breakfast/brunch menu (think pancakes, eggs Benedict, etc.) (crowdedhouse.co.nz ), and by late morning the full lunch/dinner menu kicks in. The kitchen is known for pub comfort foods: slow-cooked “mouth-watering” BBQ ribs, succulent chicken wings, toasty sandwiches, burgers and steaks feature heavily (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Salads, soups and lighter meals round out the menu for those seeking something different. Portions are famously generous – many diners comment that the meals are large, making it good value. On family-friendly nights, a children’s menu is sometimes offered for kids under about 10, and high chairs or colouring activities may be available (pokiesnearme.co.nz ). In the evenings when music or sports draw a crowd, the kitchen still has food service but late-night snack runs (like pizza or kebabs nearby) may be easier.
The bar stock is extensive. Dozens of beers are available on tap and in bottles, including local craft brews from around Taranaki and popular NZ brands (e.g. exporters, Heineken on tap, etc.) (www.ticketfairy.com ). There’s also cider on tap, a range of spirits, and a cocktail list. Wine is well-represented with several New Zealand varieties (Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, etc.). Patrons often rave about particular drinks or cocktails, especially on their themed-deal nights (like a pint and burger special).
Facilities inside are straightforward: restrooms (often single-stall unisex, as is common in NZ pubs) are located toward the rear, along with a small coat and bag rack. Crowded House doesn’t have a full cloakroom for large items, so any big backpacks or packages might be tagged and kept behind the bar (www.ticketfairy.com ) (you can always hang a coat on a hook or hand it to staff). Because it can get chilly on the dance floor when the AC is running and people are sweating, it’s a good idea to bring a light jacket if you’ll be standing or dancing. Note that by New Zealand law the entire bar is strictly non-smoking indoors (www.ticketfairy.com ); anyone who wants a cigarette must step outside, and minors (under 18) cannot even remain in the entrance way once an event starts. Overall, Crowded House inside feels like a large, friendly clubhouse – music plays through speakers all over the room, sports highlights on TVs bring out cheers, and the crowd ranges from families in the early evening to drinkers and dancers late at night (www.ticketfairy.com ) (pokiesnearme.co.nz ).
Nearby Amenities
Because Crowded House sits in the city centre, you’ll find plenty of other venues and services within easy walking distance. The Devon Street dining precinct is full of choices. A couple of doors down is The Devon Hotel (a historic pub-hotel) which has its own bistro and on-site lodging (www.ticketfairy.com ). For pre-show dinners or post-show drinks on Devon Street, there are casual cafes, Asian eateries, modern bistros and more within a block or two (www.ticketfairy.com ). For example, the Blue Elephant (a Pacific/Asian-themed restaurant) is highly recommended by locals (www.ticketfairy.com ). Other nearby bars include The Senate Bar (a craft beer spot upstairs in the old bank building) and Gusto (an Italian-style restaurant with nice sunset views about 700m down the street) (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you are hungry late at night, there are takeaways and small eateries like pizzerias and kebab shops open until late.
For accommodation, several hotels are close by. As mentioned, the Devon Hotel right opposite Crowded House has overnight rooms; just a few blocks north are the Novotel Taranaki and the Rendezvous (formerly Rydges) at the corner of Powderham and Liardet – both are only a 5–10 minute walk away (www.ticketfairy.com ). A nice waterfront option is the Millennium Hotel, which is about a 10-minute stroll southwest along the river, offering river views and comfortable rooms. For visitors wanting to combine a bar night with sightseeing, Pukekura Park is only a 3–5 minute walk away from Crowded House (www.ticketfairy.com ). The park’s gardens and avian displays (and its Bowl of Brooklands stage) make for a pleasant daytime outing before heading back to the pub. The award-winning Coastal Walkway also runs right by the waterfront near Crowded House, which is lovely for a scenic walk after dark.
In short, as one review put it, when you visit Crowded House you’re right in the “heart of New Plymouth’s centre buzz,” with restaurants, bars, galleries and hotels all within footsteps (www.ticketfairy.com ). Public transit and taxi services are easily found nearby too: New Plymouth’s main taxi rank is on Liardet Street (just 200 m up Devon) and most buses stop close to the venue (www.ticketfairy.com ). Whether you need a quick coffee, a sit-down dinner, or a place to stay afterward, the surrounding area has it covered.
What Makes This Venue Special
Crowded House is more than just another local pub – it’s woven into New Plymouth’s cultural fabric. Locally owned and run for decades, it’s earned a reputation as something of the city’s “third place” for social life (www.ticketfairy.com ). Architecturally the building is unassuming, but its unique appeal comes from how it bridges three worlds at once: a homey family restaurant by day, a sports tavern during the afternoons of big games, and a pulsing nightclub late at night (www.ticketfairy.com ). You might laugh that it shares a name with the famous Kiwi band Crowded House, and in spirit the pub celebrates that heritage – its walls and playlists often feature New Zealand music lore (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Crowded House stands out for its community involvement and evolving traditions. The owners actively give back – they regularly host charity fundraisers and benefit quiz nights for local causes. One signature example is the annual “Bikes, BBQ & Hot Cars” street festival: for over ten years it has been a summer highlight where classic cars and motorbikes parade on Devon Street, accompanied by live live bands and barbecue food specials (www.ticketfairy.com ). The venue itself also sponsors the Taranaki Rugby Bulls and often runs gameday promotions (it was the official bar for the Bulls since 1998 (www.trfu.co.nz )). These activities not only foster a fun community spirit, they also help draw business into downtown New Plymouth. In fact, tourism writers often cite Crowded House as one of the top spots for nightlife in the region, praising its versatility and energy (www.ticketfairy.com ). Visitors appreciate that one place can host everything from the final moments of a rugby match to spontaneous karaoke or live band sessions in a single night. In summary, both locals and visitors love Crowded House for its welcoming, lively atmosphere and the way it adapts to whatever mood the city feels.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The main entrance is level with the pavement (there may be a small curb to step up), so wheelchair users can typically enter without stairs. The entire bar and dining areas are on one floor, with sufficient space between tables for access. The venue should have at least one unisex disabled toilet as required by New Zealand law. Some bathrooms and corridors may be a bit narrow, so if you have specific needs (e.g. wheel-in shower facilities or extra space) it’s wise to call ahead and confirm what accommodations they can provide.
Admission/ID: As mentioned, everyone must show ID for entry to all events after dark. If you look under 25, bring your driver’s licence or passport even on a weekend night. All late-night gigs and DJ parties are strictly 18+ per the license. On the other hand, children are welcome during daytime and early-evening hours. You can bring your kids for a family dinner (there’s a kids menu and activities sometimes) (pokiesnearme.co.nz ), but be aware that once the bar switches to after-dark mode (around 8–9pm) under-18s cannot stay.
What to Bring/Not Bring: Crowded House has a casual pub vibe, so you won’t need formal attire. Dress neatly (t-shirts and jeans are fine). On themed or sports nights people often wear jerseys, so don’t worry about overdressing. However, very dirty work boots or muddy gear might be refused. One common mistake theatre-goers make is expecting a quiet lounge – after 9pm it turns into a party, so bring earplugs if you’re sound-sensitive. As for belongings, there’s no large cloakroom. You can hang a coat on a wall hook or at the small rack by the entrance, but any large backpack or bulky item might be tagged and left behind the bar (www.ticketfairy.com ). The staff are trustworthy, but travel light for convenience. Feel free to bring a camera or smartphone for pictures – casual photography is OK, but professional video or audio equipment is discouraged without prior permission. Finally, it’s licensed premises: you cannot bring your own alcohol (baby food is an exception). The bar staff take this seriously, so all drinks must be purchased on-site.
Attire: The dress code is casual. You’ll see everything from casual weekend wear to footy jerseys on game nights. There’s no requirement for suits or dresses. Just avoid filthy work clothes or construction boots, as staff may not allow them if especially dirty. Smart-casual is perfectly acceptable year-round.
Arrival: The busiest nights are Friday and Saturday. If you’re heading to a big event, plan to arrive 30–45 minutes early. This time buffer lets you find parking, get through any entry queue (if one forms), and choose a good spot before the crowd builds. The pub opens weekdays around 9:30am for breakfast, so even if a show starts at 9pm you could drop by earlier in the evening when it’s empty. If you book a table for dinner before a late show, mention this to the hosts – sometimes they’ll hold your table waiting for you. Otherwise, you may have to reclaim space as the band and dancers arrive.
Smoking: New Zealand law prohibits indoor smoking. There is no smoking allowed anywhere inside Crowded House, at any time. The only permitted smoking area is outside. Note that once an 18+ event is in progress, anyone under 18 cannot even remain on the premises, including immediate outdoor areas. So if you are with under-18s, make sure they leave well before the event starts.
Connectivity: As noted, free Wi-Fi is offered to guests (www.ticketfairy.com ). This can be handy to text friends, check event info, or catch a match update on your phone. One thing to keep in mind: because the walls are thick, mobile phone reception can be spotty inside the bar (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you need a strong signal, stepping near the entrance or briefly outside might help.
Common Pitfalls: First-timers often underestimate how lively Crowded House is. It gets loud and crowded after 9pm – there aren’t many quiet corners. If you prefer conversation, try to book an early table or visit on a weekday afternoon or lunchtime. Also, don’t assume weekend events have last-minute spots; popular shows can sell out. It’s usually better to get in line early rather than swing by at showtime. Finally, New Zealand’s strict smoking laws and ID checks are easy to overlook if you’re not used to them – so be ID-ready and plan smoke breaks outside.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of events and entertainment are held at Crowded House Bar & Eatery?
Crowded House hosts a wide range of entertainment. During the day it’s a sports bar with multiple big screens airing live rugby, cricket and other games. Evenings often feature live music (local rock, reggae or indie bands) and dance DJ nights with age- 18+ cover. There are also monthly quiz nights and themed parties (for example, karaoke nights or tropical-themed club nights). Seasonal events include family-friendly festivals like their annual Bikes and BBQ street party. In short, you’ll find sports-viewing parties, bands or DJs, and various themed nights on most weekends.
How can I buy tickets for events at Crowded House?
Crowded House doesn’t have an on-site box office, so tickets are usually sold online or through promoters. Keep an eye on Crowded House’s website or social media, or on local event sites like Eventfinda and UnderTheRadar, for ticket links. Some events let you buy advance tickets online, or you can often pay at the door on the night if the event isn’t sold out. For popular shows or live gigs, it’s a good idea to buy early, as latecomers may find events fully booked.
Are there cover charges or tickets required for entry?
Not for casual visits or sports viewing – you can walk in anytime for food, drinks or to watch games with no entry fee. Covers come into play only for special events. Most live music nights and late-evening DJ parties charge a cover (commonly around NZ$10–30). General dining or drinks without an event is free. When a cover applies, it’s always advertised on flyers or online in advance.
What are the typical ticket prices?
Cover prices vary by event. In recent years, local band nights and DJ parties at Crowded House have typically been in the NZ$10–30 range. For example, general cover fees are often around $20 in advance or $30 at the door for bigger indie gigs. Smaller quiz or movie nights might be free or have a only drink minimum. Keep in mind that events often raise the price at the door, so advance tickets (while available) are usually cheaper.
What is the address of Crowded House and when is it open?
Crowded House Bar & Eatery is at 93–99 Devon Street East, New Plymouth (corner of Hobson Street) in downtown New Plymouth. It opens at 9:30 am every day (for breakfast/brunch) and stays open until late. Weekday closing times are generally around 10:30 pm or later, while on Fridays and Saturdays it often runs until around midnight or even into the early hours when events are on. Sunday closing is earlier, typically around 10:30 pm. (Hours can change for special events, so checking their current schedule or calling ahead on a specific date is wise.)
Can children or families visit Crowded House?
Yes, during daytime and early evening Crowded House welcomes families and children. There’s often a kids’ menu or child-friendly options, and families might come for dinner or weekend brunch. However, Crowded House becomes an 18+ venue later in the evening (usually after about 8 pm). Once evening events or loud music start, patrons are ID-checked and under-18s must leave. In short: dining with children is fine before the nightly rush, but all after-dark events are for adults only.
Does Crowded House have parking available nearby?
There is on-street parking around Crowded House, but keep in mind the city’s two-hour limits (so read signs or pay meters). For longer stays, public car parks are nearby: for example, the Devil’s Gate and Powderham Street lots are a few minutes’ walk away and usually allow a couple of free hours. On busy nights these can fill up, so many people use rideshare or taxis as a courtesy. Also consider walking if your accommodation is close – downtown New Plymouth is compact and most hotels and motels are an easy stroll away.
How do I get to Crowded House by public transport?
Crowded House is in the city center, so it’s well-served by Taranaki Regional Council’s Citylink buses. Most urban bus routes pass along Devon Street or stop at the Liardet Interchange just a block away. If you arrive by inter-city coach, the city bus terminal (near the Town Hall) is also only a short walk from Crowded House. Taxis and ride-hailing services can be summoned for a direct drop-off at the front door. In summary: you’ll usually find a city bus stop or taxi stand within a few minutes’ walk.
Is Crowded House wheelchair accessible?
Crowded House is ground level from the Devon Street sidewalk, so a wheelchair or mobility access ramp should work at the main entrance. The interior is mostly on one floor. There is at least one unisex accessible toilet on site (as required by NZ building code). If you have mobility concerns (like needing a wider aisle or a table at a specific spot), it’s recommended to call ahead. The staff are known to help accommodate special needs when possible, so giving a heads-up can ensure a smooth visit.
What kind of food and drink does Crowded House serve?
Crowded House offers a full bar menu and kitchen menu all day. Expect classic New Zealand pub fare: slow-cooked BBQ ribs, juicy chicken wings, steaks, massive burgers and hearty salads are all key menu items (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Portions are generous (for example, “giant burger” and “mouth-watering ribs” are highlighted on their site). They also have daily specials (like steak nights or fish-and-chips deals) and a children’s menu on family nights. On the drinks side, there’s a wide selection of beers on tap (including local craft beers and beverages), ciders, wines (mostly NZ varietals) and cocktails. In essence, if you’re hungry or thirsty, you’ll find hearty meals and a strong bar program at Crowded House.
Can I bring outside food or drink into Crowded House?
No – Crowded House is a fully licensed venue, so bringing your own alcohol is not allowed. You are welcome to bring baby food or special dietary items, but beyond that all food and drink must be purchased from the menu. The staff enforce this policy (as with all NZ bars), so any outside beer or wine would not be permitted. Enjoy the offerings inside instead – they have plenty of food and drink choices available.
What is the dress code at Crowded House?
Dress is casual at Crowded House. Most patrons wear everyday clothes—jeans and t-shirts, shorts, jerseys on sports nights, or smart-casual outfits. There’s no requirement for formal attire. The main rule is to be reasonably tidy – for example, a very muddy work uniform might not be allowed at the door. Apart from that, comfort is key. If you plan to dance or sit at the bar late, just wear something you’d be happy hanging out in. You’ll fit in perfectly whether you’re there for a family meal or a nightclub-style evening.
What is Crowded House’s smoking and alcohol policy?
Crowded House follows all New Zealand laws. This means no smoking is allowed inside the venue at any time. They have an outdoor space, so if you want to smoke you must go outside to a designated smoking area. Importantly, minors (under 18) cannot stay on the premises once after-hours events begin – they must leave the building entirely. As for alcohol, Crowded House is licensed to sell beer, wine and spirits to adults. Bringing in your own alcohol is prohibited (as with all licensed pubs). Age checks are strict after dark, so anyone who appears under 25 should have ID ready. Other than that, the bar serves a full range of drinks as long as you’re of legal drinking age.
What forms of payment does Crowded House accept?
Crowded House accepts most common forms of payment. You can pay by cash or by debit/credit card at both the bar and the kitchen till (www.ticketfairy.com ). They do not rely on cash only. Mobile payment apps (like Apple Pay or Google Pay) may also be available on the card machines if you prefer. In any case, it’s convenient: the pub has modern point-of-sale terminals, so you typically won’t need exact change or cash on hand.
What hotels are near Crowded House for visitors?
Several hotels are very close to Crowded House. The historic Devon Hotel is right across Devon Street, offering onsite rooms and a bar/restaurant (www.ticketfairy.com ). A few minutes’ walk north brings you to the Novotel Taranaki and the Rendezvous (formerly Rydges) on Powderham Street – both are four-star hotels near the Liardet bus interchange. For waterfront views, the Millennium Hotel (on Queen Street near the river) is about a 10-minute stroll. In addition to these, there are numerous motels and B&Bs in the inner city area. In short, most downtown New Plymouth accommodations are within comfortable walking distance of Crowded House.
