About The Mayfair
The Mayfair is a landmark entertainment venue in New Plymouth’s central business district (69 Devon St West) known for its art deco heritage and multiuse action. Originally opened as Everybody’s/Mayfair Theatre in 1938, it retains a classic 1930s façade and original plaster mouldings under a newly added translucent atrium (architecturenow.co.nz) (architecturenow.co.nz). This historic “art deco gem” has been carefully restored and adapted; decorative banisters, plasterwork and motif-inspired accents were preserved during renovation (architecturenow.co.nz). Today it combines the feel of a grand old cinema with a modern nightclub-style layout, featuring a street-level bar and café (where the public can enjoy a covered outdoor dining terrace), a long entry corridor leading to the main performance hall, and upper levels for rehearsal or lounge space. The venue is operated as a vibrant dining and performance complex – once home to an a la carte restaurant and bar – and now hosting a range of events. It was long known as New Plymouth’s “premier all-round entertainment venue” (aaaticketing.co.nz), with a restaurant serving New Zealand-inspired meals alongside craft beer, spirits and wines. In short, The Mayfair’s mix of heritage architecture, atmospheric interiors and multi-space design makes it a unique cultural hub in Taranaki’s live-entertainment scene.
Historically, the building evolved through many incarnations. Built on the site of the old Everybody’s Theatre, it received a new Art Deco façade in 1937 designed by Thomas Bates (noted theatre architect) (terangiaoaonunui.pukeariki.com). After decades as a cinema, the upper level was revived as an “Arthouse” movie cinema in 2010 (having been dormant after earthquakes) (terangiaoaonunui.pukeariki.com). The venue closed for earthquake strengthening in 2012, then in 2013 reopened as a pool parlour upstairs and the ground floor as “Mayfair Bar” (terangiaoaonunui.pukeariki.com). This bar operated through the 2010s before shutting in October 2019 when the tenant went into liquidation (terangiaoaonunui.pukeariki.com). Since 2020 the space has been run by Zeal (a New Plymouth youth organisation), known as Zeal Taranaki or “Zeal at The Mayfair” – mixing community youth programs by day with music and arts events at night (terangiaoaonunui.pukeariki.com) (zeal.nz). Despite these changes, each era preserved the building’s flair: visitors and locals still appreciate that the Mayfair “is the city again, with all the memories that go along with it” as its renovators put it (architecturenow.co.nz).
Events and Programming
The Mayfair hosts a wide variety of performances and social events year-round. It’s a favourite local club and concert venue – with genres ranging from live rock and pop to DJ dance nights, comedy shows, themed parties and even corporate functions. Within a few years of reopening (2012), it quickly became “the hub of live performance” in New Plymouth (www.audioculture.co.nz). Major New Zealand rock acts (Devilskin, Head Like A Hole/HLAH, Rival State, etc.) have headlined there, and even international bands like The Buzzcocks have played packed shows (www.audioculture.co.nz). Music styles range from hard rock and indie to electronic dance, drum’n’bass or hip-hop parties – for example a New Year’s Eve dance event in 2021 featured big Kiwi DJs (EMWA, etc.) in sold out concerts. The theatre space can be partitioned, so smaller local bands and open-mic nights often share the calendar with bigger tours. Comedy nights and charity gigs are also common: for instance an “International Comedy Night” was held (2019), showing the format’s popularity. The venue has hosted cultural events (like Taranaki Arts Festival concerts) – a recent example is Sola Rosa’s Taranaki performance in October 2025 – and community happenings. Many events are nearly nightly; club nights and midweek gigs keep the calendar busy. In short, The Mayfair’s programming is eclectic and frequent: check a monthly listings guide to find upcoming concerts, DJ sets, comedy shows, jazz or blues/funk club nights, and festivals that come through town.
Notable past events include national touring rock bands (eg. Devilskin, HLAH) who filled the hall, headline club nights and international acts (Buzzcocks, etc.) in the 2010s (www.audioculture.co.nz). The venue designed a way to shrink the big space into a cosier club area for smaller gigs (www.audioculture.co.nz). Major festivals like Reimagine/The Taranaki Arts Festival reuse it as a city venue (such as Sola Rosa’s 25th anniversary tour). Recurring highlights are annual parties (YMCA/NYE raves or themed holiday nights). Ticket prices vary by act – local bands and surprise pop-ups might go for $20–$30 GA, while major acts range from $40 up to $60 or more (fees included) (www.eventfinda.co.nz).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Mayfair events are sold through official channels and authorised outlets (often online via NZ ticketing platforms or at a box office). For big concerts, tickets often go on sale weeks or months in advance; join the venue mailing or follow NZ event listings to know when they’re released. The venue itself has a front-door phone line (06 759 2088 (aaaticketing.co.nz)) but no ticket booth, so most sales are pre-booked. Advanced booking is strongly recommended for popular shows – smaller gigs might offer limited door sales, but big rock concerts and festival nights usually sell out. Prices are tiered: general admission is cheapest (e.g. the 2025 Sola Rosa event was $49 GA (www.eventfinda.co.nz)) while VIP or front-row big packages (if offered) cost more. Keep in mind local fees (service charges) when buying. Admission is usually general standing, though the venue can set up some seats (up to ~230) or table seating for seated events. Pay close attention to age limits on tickets: 18+ is common when alcohol is served, while all-ages events will say “licensed family-friendly” on the listing. Also note COVID-era rules (recent events required vaccination passes and ID checks), though by 2024 most restrictions have eased. (www.ticketfairy.com) In short, purchase through trusted outlets (not scalpers), and arrive early – doors often open 30–60 minutes before showtime, while late entry may be refused once a show starts.
Seating and Layout
The Mayfair’s interior is largely open-plan with a dancefloor/auditorium, rather than fixed stadium seating. The main hall (ex-theatre) can hold about 600 people standing (up to 230 seated) (zeal.nz). When set up as a seated concert, there are roughly 200–230 chairs available (often around the edges or on a raised platform), but most gigs are general admission. The stage is at one end of the hall, and the long rectangular space widens to a raised DJ/mezzanine at the other end. (Two staircases lead to this mezzanine, which overlooks the dancefloor and provides the DJ’s booth and some elevated viewing (architecturenow.co.nz).) Patrons on the main floor gather in front of the stage in standing areas; furthest back near the stage walls are low booths or high tables. The front right and left of the stage are best for sound-and-light acrobatics – sound engineers often position PA speakers on either side of stage, so most frequencies carry equally well across front-center. For visuals, being centre-stage or a step to one side is ideal. If seated, table-side chairs give a good straight-on view. One quirk: for smaller turnouts the venue sometimes installs a “folded” curtain to create a smaller room, so check the setup for your show. In general, the acoustics are lively (old theatre shell) so it’s a loud, live-sound experience – bring ear protection if needed. Avoid the very back corners (sound can echo there) or extreme side booths behind pillars. The mezzanine offers a bird’s-eye view, but at a distance. Overall, front-of-house on the main floor is best for an immersive concert, while the raised area is decent for DJs.
Getting There and Parking
The Mayfair is located at 69 Devon Street West, New Plymouth (in the heart of town). It’s easy to spot on Devon Street West, just west of the Egmont Street intersection. By car, you can drop off right at the front entrance (allow plenty of time in peak hours). On-street parking is metered ($1–$2 per hour typical) and can be scarce on busy nights, but there are convenient short-term car parks nearby. For example, the City council’s 2 Central Street car park (49 spaces) is about a 3-minute walk and offers 2 hours free parking (www.parkopedia.co.nz). The Egmont Street car park (20 spaces) is also nearby with 2-hour free limits (www.parkopedia.co.nz). Longer stay or overflow parking can be found in nearby lots on Vivian Street or in multi-storey buildings just a 5–10 minute walk away (often still only a few dollars per hour). Never park on footpaths or no-parking zones as enforcement is strict. There is no large dedicated venue lot, so arriving early to secure street parking is wise.
Public transit: Taranaki Regional Council’s Citylink bus network runs through the city centre. Several routes stop on Devon Street (for example, Route 6/Route 10 cover Devon St West) – the closest stop is a few blocks away on Egmont or Liardet Street. Check the TRC timetables for schedules (buses typically run until ~10pm); late-night options after shows may be limited. Rideshares/taxis: Uber and local taxis serve New Plymouth. Taxis can usually be hailed downtown or booked (e.g. “Bobbies Taxis”). If you’re flagged down outside at Egmont St, that’s a decent pickup zone. Keep in mind that after midnight transport is sparse, so plan accordingly. Many guests simply walk a block or two to catch a northbound bus on Devon, or get picked up at the Devon Street entrance.
Inside the Venue
On entering The Mayfair, expect a spacious, atmospheric interior blending old and new. Guests typically queue under the marquee, check in at the door (tickets scanned) and possibly show ID for 18+ events. Security is present and bag checks are common, especially on busy nights. The main floor features a bar area at the front (with high tables spilling outside along the awning in summer) and seating near the entrance – this is where an espresso/café lounge might operate (especially on youth afternoons). Beyond the bar is the wide corridor through the atrium and into the dimly lit main performance space. Thistle-lit murals and gold-trim details hark back to the Art Deco styling (architecturenow.co.nz). Inside the auditorium, the vast dancefloor is in front, with a raised mezzanine and back-of-room chill-out spots.
Beverages and food: Before it closed, The Mayfair offered a restaurant menu (see menu items like pizzas, wings, salads, etc (lunchtime.co.nz)). In its current format, the front bar serves commercial drinks – beers, ciders, house wines and spirits – often on a cashless/tab system (PayWave/eftpos only) (www.ticketfairy.com). Note: in 2021 they specifically mandated card payments (no cash) and no vaping inside (www.ticketfairy.com), so bring only ID/cards. There are no outside drinks permitted. If the event starts before dinner, plan to eat beforehand: nearby restaurants (see next section) have full meals. Restrooms (toilets) are located on the side or back north end of the hall; there are multiple sets including at least one accessible toilet. Amenities include air-conditioning and good ventilation (high ceilings), though late-night concerts can get warm and humid in the crowd. Wi-Fi may not be available for guests, so expect spotty cell reception inside. Coat check: informally, the venue may offer a staffed cloakroom during big events (often run by volunteers or staff), but on smaller nights you might be asked to keep jackets with you. A merchandise stand is often set up by touring bands – usually just inside the main hall near the stage, with T-shirts and albums. In short, the vibe is casual and friendly; staff are usually approachable and the atmosphere lively but safe – many reviewers mention “friendly staff” and a good pub vibe (wanderlog.com).
Nearby Amenities
The Mayfair sits in a convenient downtown precinct with many pubs, eateries and shops within a short stroll. For pre-show dining, you’ll find cafés and restaurants along Egmont Street and the kino block: for example, The Devon Hotel (A heritage-style brasserie) is just across Egmont St, and casual options like a burger place or poke bar are a few doors away. Scratch Bakehouse (coffee and pastries) or late-night fish-and-chips shops are within 2 blocks. A major supermarket (“Countdown”) and petrol stations are roughly one block east if you need snacks or supplies. For drinks before the show, pubs like H20 Nightclub (just next door) and The Aurum on Egmont have craft beer and bar food. After a concert, it’s a short walk to several bars on Tukapa Street (“Ubar”, “The Habit”, etc.) if you want an after-party drink (many stay open late). Convenience stores (dairies and bottle shops) are also on nearby streets. If you need a last-minute umbrella or jacket, ask at the Cherry Lane Mall shops (200m away).
Hotels: Several accommodations are within walking distance. The Distinction Hotel (formerly Quality) and the Sudima/Rendezvous Hotel are about a 10-minute stroll through the CBD. The Ibis/Novotel complex is also nearby on Liardet Street, a 5-minute walk over the foot bridge. Budget motels and B&Bs line the highway 10 minutes south. If you’re flying or coming from afar, New Plymouth Airport is 15 minutes’ drive (taxis and shuttles available). For public transit riders, Pukekura Bus station (near Coronation Square) is about 400 m away – but note its services stop in the evening. We recommend arriving early (at least 30 minutes before showtime) to grab dinner or a drink at a neighbouring pub, then head over when doors are due. At night, when the show’s done, either pre-book a taxi or walk safely to a bus stop on Devon St (buses run infrequently past 10pm) or flag an Uber/taxi at Egmont St.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Mayfair’s unique charm comes from its blend of old and new. Architecturally it’s one of New Plymouth’s few preserved heritage cinemas (architecturenow.co.nz), so it carries a nostalgic atmosphere that locals treasure. Many long-time residents remember it as “movies on Saturday night” – the polished wood banisters, gold-leaf motifs and the curved balcony (now converted) evoke that era (architecturenow.co.nz) (architecturenow.co.nz). At the same time, bright new elements – a high glass atrium, DJ mezzanine and modern lighting – give it a fresh, clubby feel (architecturenow.co.nz) (architecturenow.co.nz). The extensive renovation respected the original art deco bones. People who “came here as kids” (as architect Cecile Bonnifait noted) are delighted to find it lively again (architecturenow.co.nz). Cultural impact: in the 2010s The Mayfair was credited with sparking a revival of live music in town (providing a safe space for local bands to perform and sell music) (www.audioculture.co.nz). Famous gigs there (like Devilskin’s sell-out shows or HLAH album launches) give it legend status among rock fans. On stage, technical side: it is equipped with a high-quality in-house PA and lighting rig so bands can plug in. The dancefloor and mezzanine allow crowd-surfing and stage-dancing spots, so performers love the energy. Staff and regulars often say it “feels like a really big lounge/bar” – wide and welcoming, with beer on tap and a bit of home-town familiarity. In short, it’s special because it’s at once old-school theatre and gritty nightclub – a memory-filled, multi-level venue where artists and audiences can share an electric night out.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Mayfair has been upgraded for modern needs. The street entrance is step-free (a gentle ramp off the sidewalk), and there is an elevator that reaches the mezzanine. At least one unisex, wheelchair-accessible restroom is available on the main floor. If you require special seating, ask ahead (the staff will do their best to accommodate chair lifts or a reserved space). The hired lighting desk is lit to sort wheelchairs easily. Audio-visual signing or hearing loops are not standard, so if needed, bring your own aids. Overall, it’s much more accessible than its age suggests; if in doubt call ahead.
Security and Policies: Bag checks are routine, especially at sold-out concerts. Allowed: small personal items, cameras without large lenses (for judgment-free photography as long as it doesn’t interfere). Prohibited: large bags, outside food/drink, weapons (even pocketknives) or illicit substances. While many shows are 18+ due to alcohol, all-ages gigs do occur; minors should be accompanied by adults and hold a valid ID if asked. Dress is casual clubwear – just wear sturdy shoes for dancing. No fancy formal attire is required (a “smart casual” dress code fits most nights). Tweaking: it’s wise to bring earplugs (sound levels can peak), a coat if winter (it can be cold waiting outside) and a small pack for souvenirs. If mist or rain is expected, know that the outdoor bar lounge has a roof, and umbrellas are stowed at the entrance. A key insider tip: many locals cheer stage-left near the soundboard as a closer view (and away from the heat of crowd dancing). Finally, don’t miss the glowing neon sign outside – it makes a great photo memory.