About Crowded House
Crowded House Bar & Eatery is a long-standing restaurant, pub and live-entertainment venue located on Devon Street East in downtown New Plymouth . Established in 1997, it has become a local icon known for its friendly atmosphere and hearty pub fare . By day it serves breakfast, lunch and dinner – think slow-cooked ribs, succulent wings, steaks and giant burgers – and even offers a cafe section for coffee or casual brunch . By night the place transforms into an entertainment hub: multiple HD screens air live sports, and guest DJs or bands spin tunes into the small hours . Nicknamed “Crowdy” by locals, this spacious multi-level bar has become one of New Plymouth’s most vibrant sports bars and music venues .
The décor is warm and pubby, with wood accents and ambient lighting highlighting a casual dining space and a large bar . The crowd-friendly vibe – “you’re never alone at Crowdy,” as their motto goes – means everyone from families to late-night revellers feels welcome . In fact, the venue won multiple hospitality awards (including best sports bar in 2007 and a “Hospitality Excellence” award in 2019 ) precisely because of its lively but down-to-earth charm. In short, Crowded House is a hostel of sorts, where great food meets big-game sports and live music under one roof, making it a standout spot on Devon Street.
Events and Programming
Crowded House hosts an eclectic mix of events tailored for all kinds of patrons. Wherever possible, the veranda and bar are outfitted for live sports viewings – be it rugby, cricket, or major international games – ensuring sports fans can catch every moment on multiple HD screens . Beyond sports, the venue schedules regular social nights: weekly quiz nights (often on Wednesdays), theme parties and drink specials like Burger & Brew Tuesdays or Friday night “Fish ’n’ Chips + Brew” deals draw a mid-week and weekend crowd. Local DJs spin dance music late into the night on most Saturdays, and advertised “special nights” (such as reggae, rock or R&B club nights) have increasingly become part of the lineup.
Live music is a big draw. On weekends Crowdy often hosts local or regional bands – from alternative rock and indie outfits to reggae, funk and electronic acts – performing on a small stage or DJ platform in the back area. For example, in May 2025 the bar presented an “INDIE CINDY” alt-indie party featuring local Taranaki bands like The Mara and Skram (mixing dub, surf and rock styles) and a guest DJ . Other touring DJs and regional acts frequently stop in New Plymouth, playing club sets at Crowded House late at night and usually charging a cover. Typical ticket prices for these gigs range around NZD 10–30 (for instance, a prepaid ticket to the Indie Friday night party was $20, or $30 at the door ). Entry to music and dance events is almost always restricted to ages 18+ (ID is checked at the door) .
A notable annual series is the “Bikes, BBQ & Hot Cars” night, run on several summer evenings. Crowded House takes over Devon St with classic cars and custom bikes lining the street, accompanied by live music, BBQ food specials and raffle prizes . This family-friendly open-air event (in its 13th year in 2025) turns the whole block into a party. In short, whether it’s catching the Crusaders game on the big screens, joining a trivia team on a weekday, or dancing to a DJ past midnight, Crowded House has programming for virtually every taste. (The house even sponsors large local events outside the bar – for example, it co-sponsored the “Taranaki Explosion” charity boxing show at TSB Stadium in 2024 – underscoring its active role in the region’s entertainment scene.)
Tickets and Booking
For regular restaurant or bar entry (non-show nights), no ticket or reservation is needed – you can just walk in. For special events (live concerts, DJ parties, fundraisers), tickets are usually sold through event promoters or online outlets (local sites like UnderTheRadar, Eventfinda etc.), or sometimes through Crowded House’s own website/social media announcements. There isn’t a traditional box office at the venue itself; advance booking is mostly handled by third-party sellers or the promoters' pages. Often you can also purchase tickets at the door on the night of an event if it’s not sold out. As an example, the Indie music nights typically charged $20 online and $30 at the door .
If you want to guarantee a spot at a popular show (especially on a weekend or for well-known acts), it's wise to buy tickets early – these gigs can sell out. For bigger concerts, Ticketek or regional ticket agents might be used, but smaller shows rely on local ticketing. Keep an eye on Crowded House’s online updates or the listings in Taranaki entertainment guides; they often announce gig dates a few weeks in advance. If dining before an event, it can be helpful to reserve a table by calling the barphone (free booking line on their website) to avoid disappointment, as dinner hours can be busy on show nights. Door entry typically opens about an hour before showtime (often around 8–9pm), so early arrival also helps you get your tickets scanned and choose a good spot.
Seating and Layout
The layout of Crowded House is informal and open. The front area is primarily a wide dining hall with many tables and chairs, plus high stools around a long central bar . Deeper inside and towards one end of the venue is the entertainment section: this is a partially cleared floor space in front of the stage or DJ console, where people stand, dance and watch performances. There may be booth seating or bar seats along the sides for those who prefer to sit. Overall, most concerts and DJ sets are general admission – you can stand up near the stage if you want to be in the thick of the action, or sit in the adjacent lounge areas and still enjoy the show.
From a viewing standpoint, the best spots for music nights are on the dance floor or along the front edge of the crowd, close to the performers. Sound and lighting are arranged facing that direction. If you prefer a slightly quieter experience (or want a table), seating toward the side or back still offers a view over the heads, but the acoustics remain lively. There doesn’t appear to be a balcony or second level for audience; everything is on the main floor. One small bonus: if you sit at the bar you get a full view of the room, multiple TV screens (for sports) and immediate bar service – though at peak times the bar can get noisy. There is no assigned seating plan, so at busy events try to arrive early to claim optimum space. In general the sound system is typical of a medium-sized pub: it’s loud and boomy for concerts, which adds to the energetic vibe, but if you’re sensitive to volume you might want to stay a few metres back.
Getting There and Parking
Crowded House is at 93–99 Devon Street East in the heart of New Plymouth (corner of Hobson Street) . This puts it in the central city just a short walk from the waterfront coast. By bus, several Taranaki Regional Council Citylink routes stop nearby – the nearest main bus interchange (Liardet Street off Devon) is only a couple of blocks away. Most intra-city buses pass through or near Devon Street, so you can usually catch a convenient stop within a few minutes’ walk. The New Plymouth Airport (Bell Block) is about 10 km north; taxis or rideshare vans from there will drop you off directly outside. If you are coming from elsewhere, InterCity coaches arrive at the city bus terminal (near the town hall), which is about a 3–5 minute walk from the bar.
For drivers, on-street parking and nearby car parks are available but can fill up during busy times. The city enforces a 2-hour limit on nearby street spaces (permit or pay-and-display), but there are public lots as well. For example, the “No. 2 Central” car park on Powderham Street (a 3 minute walk away) offers 49 public spaces with the first 2 hours free . The Egmont Street car park (also ~3–5 min away) similarly offers free short-term parking . After 2 hours, fees apply. If you plan to stay all night, you may need to pay for longer-term parking or move your car after the free period. A helpful tip is to arrive early or carpool on weekends. Rideshare services (Uber, Zoomy or Lyft, depending on availability) can drop you curbside on Devon St, and there are local taxi stands not far away. Evening traffic is usually light, but the Devon Street area can be busy with pedestrians and outdoor events, so allow a few extra minutes to navigate on foot.
Inside the Venue
Stepping into Crowded House, you’ll find a welcoming but bustling scene. There is typically a host or bouncer at the main entrance on gig nights, checking IDs for anyone who looks under 25 (especially after 8pm), since all late-night events are age-restricted. Once inside, the service is friendly – the staff know the locals by name and work fast. If you’ve booked a table for dining, you’ll be led to it; otherwise, you can walk around and grab a seat at any open table or at the bar. Credit cards, debit cards, and cash are all accepted at the till and bar. Free WiFi is advertised for guests, so you can look up scores or places to stay online while you eat or drink.
The menu runs all day: breakfast and brunch specials appear in the morning (pancakes, eggs benedict, etc.), with the full lunch/dinner menu available by late morning. Key highlights include the “slow-cooked ribs” and juicy wings mentioned on the website – patrons often rave about their BBQ flavours – as well as salads, soups, and lighter fare for families. A kids’ menu is sometimes available on family-friendly nights and children under about 10 are welcome for early meals . In the bar area, there’s an extensive lineup of beers on tap (including local brews and brands like Heineken) , ciders and craft spirits. Cocktails are made to order and a wine list offers several New Zealand varietals.
Restrooms are located inside (usually unisex as per NZ pubs), and there’s a small coat/gear rack near the entrance – though space is limited. If you bring a tote bag or backpack it may be checked or asked to keep it in a coatroom behind the bar. Bring a jacket or sweater if you’re sensitive to air-conditioning or if you’ll be standing toward the back – the dance floor area can get chilly once people start dancing. Note: New Zealand law forbids indoor smoking, so the entire venue is smoke-free (even on dance nights). There isn’t a formal cloakroom for valuables, but the staff are happy to keep an eye on items behind the bar. Overall, expect a relaxed, party vibe: music from speakers peppered around the room, cheers at every goal or try on TV, and a crowd that ranges from families at lunch to music fans and sport hooligans at night.
Nearby Amenities
Because Crowded House is in the city centre, a wealth of other amenities is just steps away. For pre-show dining or post-show drinks, Devon Street is known for its diverse eatery scene. You’ll find everything from casual cafes and Asian restaurants to modern New Zealand bistros within one or two blocks. For example, a well-regarded spot for Pacific-hued cuisine is **The Blue Elephant**, and those craving classic Kiwiana might swing by the Devon Hotel’s onsite restaurant (the Devon is literally next door at 79 Devon St East). Other nearby venues include the Senate Bar (craft beers, upstairs at the bank building) and Gusto (an Italian dining room with views of the water, about 700m west). Late-night snack stops (pizzerias, kebab shops) also remain open after gigs end.
If you need accommodations, several hotels and lodges are within walking distance. Directly across the street is the historic Devon Hotel, which has rooms and on-site dining. A few blocks north is the Novotel Taranaki (4-star, on powderham St & Liardet) and the Rendezvous Hotel (former Rydges, just behind the bus station). The waterfront Millennium Hotel is about a 10-minute stroll southwest, offering river views. Short-term parking and public charging stations for electric cars cluster around the riverfront (near the Coastal Walkway) as well.
Beyond food and lodging, other attractions are on your doorstep. The sprawling Pukekura Park (home to gardens, bird aviaries and the famous Bowl of Brooklands concert amphitheatre) is only 3–5 minutes’ walk away, so you can easily visit the park during the day and then return for an evening out. The entire award-winning Waterfront Loop (from the marina to Spotless Stadium) is also adjacent, if you fancy a scenic walk before or after an event. Public transport (as above) and taxi stands are close by; the main downtown taxi rank is on Liardet Street, 200 m from Crowded House. In short, you’re in the thick of New Plymouth’s city-centre buzz: restaurants, bars, galleries and hotels are all in easy reach.
What Makes This Venue Special
Crowded House isn’t just another bar – it’s woven into New Plymouth’s cultural fabric. Locally owned and run for decades, it has earned a reputation as the city’s unofficial “third place” (after home and work) for fun and community. Architecturally it’s unassuming, but its layout and vibe highlight what makes it singular: a bridge between a family-friendly restaurant, a sports tavern and a nightclub. You can come at noon with your grandparents for classic roast or fish’n’chips, then return after dark to dance to bass-heavy tunes – and the place adapts seamlessly. It even carries the name of a classic Kiwi band (Crowded House) in spirit, often celebrating local music heritage on its walls and on stage.
By hosting events and supporting causes, Crowded House gives back to the region. It routinely sponsors local charities, sporting clubs and fundraisers (for example, they’ve thrown benefit nights and live quizzes for community groups) . Its signature event series, the Bikes-BBQ-Cars nights, has become a summer tradition in Taranaki . The venue also occasionally co-promotes larger regional spectacles – in 2024 it co-presented a major boxing match (“Taranaki Explosion”) at TSB Stadium, headlined by ex-All Black Liam Messam . Such activities bring business to central New Plymouth and boost the late-night economy. Tourism guides often cite Crowded House as a top spot for nightlife in the region. In short, both visitors and locals love it for its vibrant energy and versatility: from major sports showdowns to spontaneous karaoke or live band shows, there’s always something to enjoy here .
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The building is ground-level on Devon St, so wheelchair access into the main bar/dining area should be possible (check for a small curb or ramp at the door). Inside, the main floor is mostly one level. However, restrooms and some tight corridors may be narrow. If full accessibility is a concern, it’s wise to phone ahead (06 759 4921) and confirm what accommodations they have.
Admission/ID: As noted, all after-dark events are 18+ . If you look under 25, bring photo ID even if you’re obviously older – the staff are strict about IDs. For family visits (morning to early evening), kids are permitted and even have their own menu on certain nights .
What to Bring/Not Bring: There’s no coat check for large jackets or bags – space is limited – so if possible travel light. (You can hang coats on the wall hooks or leave them with staff.) Umbrellas are fine for entrance, but they must be stowed by your table once inside. Feel free to bring a camera or smartphone (crowd pics are part of the fun), but professional photo/video gear is discouraged without management permission. Outside food and drink are not allowed beyond baby food. Crowded House is a licensed premise, so while they have a great menu, you can’t bring your own alcohol.
Attire: Dress is casual. On weekends or theme nights, you’ll see everything from T-shirts and jeans to fans with team jerseys. There’s no formal dress code, but tradespeople in boots might be turned away if particularly messy (like at some local pubs). When in doubt, neat casual is safest.
Arrival: For big concerts or game nights, keys to a smooth experience include arriving 30–45 minutes early. This lets you get through any entry queue, choose your spot, and even chat with the bartender before peak crowd hits. If driving, remember to allow extra time for parking (weekend nights can pack the nearby car parks) or plan to share a taxi. The pub opens for breakfast at 9:30 am on weekdays (and general open seating by around 10:00 am), so even if you have a 9 pm show, the place is empty during the day. If you have a meal reservation and later plan to see a show, mention this; sometimes they’ll hold your table for a short wait (within reason).
Weather/Weather Policies: Since Crowded House is fully indoors, weather has little impact. However, if a street event (like Bikes & Cars) is advertised, that will obviously depend on the forecast; such events usually run rain or shine, but always check their updates. Once inside, the roof cheers and hot wings keep you cozy regardless of rain or gale outside.
Common Pitfalls: One mistake first-timers make is expecting a quiet evening. Crowded House is lively by nature – music is loud and there are few quiet corners once after 9pm. If you prefer chatting peacefully, pick an early dinner slot or a weekday afternoon. Another tip: weekends (especially Fridays and Saturdays) can fill up fast, so don’t assume you can just stroll in without a plan. It’s wise to get in line at the door if something is about to start. Finally, remember that New Zealand law prohibits indoor smoking. You will need to step outside to smoke, and under-18s cannot even stand outside near the door during events (they must leave the premises).
Connectivity: The venue provides free WiFi for customers , which is handy for texting friends last-minute or checking event times. However, mobile phone coverage inside is often spotty due to the thick walls – you might have to move to the entrance or step outside to complete a call.
Accessibility Features (Simplified): As of the venue’s last update, Crowded House appears to offer ground-floor access and family washrooms. Expect at least one unisex accessible toilet (required by NZ code). There are no elevators because all the gathering space is on the ground level. The staff are known for being accommodating, so if you require special seating or assistance (like for a large wheelchair), it’s best to call ahead so they can reserve a suitable spot and ensure a smooth experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of Crowded House (how many people can it hold)?
The exact legal capacity isn't publicly listed, but Crowded House is a large multi-room venue. It seats dozens of diners at tables and easily holds well over 100 standing guests in the bar and dance areas. For big events the crowd often fills both the restaurant and back dance floor. If planning a party or large group, contact the venue to check if space can be reserved.
Does Crowded House have a dress code?
No formal dress code is in effect. Crowded House is a casual pub, so patrons typically wear smart-casual attire. Jeans, T-shirts, dresses and pubwear are all acceptable. Some people dress up a bit on weekends, but fancy evening wear is not expected. As a general rule, if you’d wear it to a sports bar or casual restaurant, it will be fine at Crowded House.
Are there age restrictions at Crowded House?
Yes. Crowded House operates differently during day vs night. From morning until early evening (roughly until 6–8pm) it is family-friendly, and all ages (children included) are allowed. After dark, it switches to an 18+ venue for live music and club nights. So on concert or DJ nights you must be 18 or over (ID required) . Always check the event details – advertised entry ages are strictly enforced.
How do I buy tickets for shows at Crowded House?
Tickets are usually sold through the event’s promoter or an online ticketing service, not through the restaurant’s main counter. Look for announcements on Crowded House’s website or social pages, or search event sites like UnderTheRadar or Eventfinda. Many gigs offer presale online, and unsold tickets can often be purchased at the door on the night. For last minute planning, you can also call the bar (06 759 4921) and ask if there are tickets left or if they’ll be available at the door.
Is Crowded House wheelchair-accessible?
Generally yes, the main entrance is ground-level on Devon Street East with no steps, so wheelchairs can enter. Inside the main restaurant and bar area are open-plan on one level (except restrooms which are also accessible). Note that some tables and restroom doorways may be tighter space than modern standards. It’s advisable to call ahead if precise access features are needed (e.g. a wide accessible restroom or reserved ground-floor seating) so staff can assist.
What are the opening hours of Crowded House?
Crowded House is open daily. On Sunday through Thursday it opens from 9:30am and stays open until late at night. On Fridays and Saturdays it opens at 9:30am and typically closes around midnight . (It operates earlier hours in the morning for breakfast and lunch, and switches to later bar hours after work.) Always double-check if there’s a special event or holiday, which could alter closing times.
Where is Crowded House located and how can I get there by public transport?
Crowded House is located at 93-99 Devon Street East, New Plymouth . Devon Street is the main city thoroughfare. By bus, Taranaki Regional Council’s Citylink routes all pass near the city centre – you can get off at stops on Devon Street or near the TSB Showplace. The main bus interchange is at Liardet Street (about 200m away), and most city buses loop past there or along Devon. Rideshare cars (Uber/CabZoom) can drop you curbside on Devon St. If driving, note that street parking (pay or $2/hr with a 2-hr limit) is available on surrounding streets, and public lots (e.g. Central Car Park on Powderham St) are a short walk away .
What food and drink options are available insideCrowded House?
Crowded House has a full kitchen restaurant. The menu features pub classics: big ribs, steaks, burgers, wings and hearty salads . They serve breakfast sandwiches and eggs in the morning, lunch specials during the day, and an expanded dinner menu at night. The bar offers a wide selection of local and international beers on tap (including Heineken and several NZ craft brews) , plus wines, spirits and house cocktails. There are often drink specials tied to the weekly theme nights (like steak dinners or burger combos with a beer). Expect generous portions and friendly prices – many visitors note the great value for the size of the meals.
Are children allowed at Crowded House?
Yes, during daytime and early evening hours Crowded House is family-friendly. They welcome kids for brunch and dinner (with child-sized portions and sometimes a kids’ menu) . Usually families dine there early in the evening. However, if there is an advertised late-night music or club event, the venue will enforce an 18+ rule and underage patrons are asked to leave by around 8–9PM. Always check the event listing – typically anything labeled R18 means no minors allowed after dark .
What is the seating arrangement and best seats for a show?
Crowded House has mixed seating. The front and sides of the room have tables and bar stools for dining and casual viewing, while the rear centre area is kept open for standing during concerts. The best place to watch a live act is on the dance floor or standing at the front of the crowd (near the stage or DJ booth). If you prefer to sit, aim for a table just off to the side of the dance floor; that way you can still see over the waving crowd. Seating is unreserved, so for prime spots try to arrive early on big show nights. Note that acoustics favor the middle of the room – some people find the sound slightly distant from behind the bar.
Does Crowded House have any outdoor area?
Crowded House itself is fully indoors on ground level; there is no private outdoor courtyard attached to the pub. However, the venue occasionally spills out onto the street for special events (like the Bikes, BBQ & Hot Cars nights ). On a normal night you can step outside to the sidewalk or street right in front of the door. The city typically does not have a pavement café license at this address (due to road width), so outdoor seating is not standard. Patrons can smoke in the street or on the sidewalk outside (NZ law requires smokers to go outdoors).
Is Wi-Fi available at Crowded House?
Yes. Crowded House advertises free Wi-Fi for customers. When you arrive, you can ask the staff for the Wi-Fi network name and password. Note that during peak times or in crowded spots, the signal may be a bit slow (as can happen in busy bars), but it generally works well enough to check scores or text friends.
Do they serve food all day at Crowded House?
Yes. Crowded House runs a kitchen service throughout the day. Breakfast/brunch is served from opening (around 9:30am) until late morning. Then a lunch menu takes over until late afternoon. Dinner service begins in the early evening and continues until closing. In short, you can get a meal there at pretty much any time between 10am and 10pm or so. Some late-night snacks (burgers/pizza) may be available past typical dinner hours, but it’s best to dine by 9pm on an ordinary night. Daily specials (like salad and soup combos, or burger nights) often rotate through the week.
