About 10 Thames St
10 Thames Street is home to Turoa Lodge , a small ski-town bar and lodge that anchors Ohakune’s après-ski culture. Located at “the bottom of the mountain road in the heart of Ohakune’s Junction,” it serves as a cozy retreat at the base of Mt Ruapehu (State Highway 49) (www.ticketfairy.com ). The venue feels like a classic alpine pub – timber-clad walls, exposed beams and an old‐school fireplace give it a rustic chalet vibe. It’s been described as a “relaxed environment where you can chill after a day’s skiing” – then seamlessly transitions into a lively party spot with DJs and themed dance nights (www.ticketfairy.com ). In fact, the lodge even bills itself as “Ohakune’s home of live music” on its own website (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Turoa Lodge’s history stretches back decades. In 1985 it was re-opened with extensive renovations as a full night-spot (including dining rooms and a cocktail lounge), making late-night dining and partying possible in town for the first time (paperspast.natlib.govt.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Under later owners it settled into a more laid-back, dive-bar style. Today it’s a local institution: a ski club hangout turned rock-and-roll bar, complete with New Zealand beers on tap and hearty pub fare (think burgers, fries and bar snacks). Capacity is intentionally modest – it’s essentially a pub/bar floor with a bit of seating and a central dance floor – so expect to mix and mingle with an intimate, energetic crowd rather than be lost in a big arena (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Two small guest rooms (one queen, one twin) in the building also make it a mountain lodge for those who want to stay on site (www.ticketfairy.com ). All in all, 10 Thames Street matters locally for its character as a legacy ski-town hangout: a wood-panelled firelit bar that draws skiers in to swap tales over a pint after a big day on the slopes (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Events and Programming
During winter season (roughly June–September), 10 Thames Street comes alive almost nightly with live music, DJs, and themed parties (www.turoalodge.co.nz ). Turoa Lodge is best known for its wild apres-ski schedule: everything from costumed dance nights to tribute-band concerts to karaoke and “foam parties” are on tap. Each week brings a new buzz – for example, past seasons have seen tongue-in-cheek events like Beach Party, Glow-in-the-Dark Raves, Roo-ROdeo Nights and even a Mardi Gras street-festival afterparty on closing weekend (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Local DJs spin high-energy dance music, and Kiwi rock bands (often covers or tribute acts like “NZ/DC,” a full-tilt AC/DC tribute) crank up the volume for live shows (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Most nights are informal and open to anyone 18+, with free or low-cost entry. Many themes advertise “free entry before 9pm” and cheap drink specials to pack the house early (www.ticketfairy.com ). The lodge regularly plays host to Ohakune’s larger winter events as well. For example the famous Mardi Gras street party typically spills over here for an after-party under the sign of the lodge, and special concerts or charity gigs are often held at 10 Thames when touring bands roll through New Zealand. (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ) Tickets for holiday-bigger shows (like the annual Mardi Gras or seeded dance events) may be sold in advance through local outlets or club promoters (often around NZ$15–$30), but most weekly music and party nights are pay-at-door or even free (www.ticketfairy.com ). In short, if you want a wild night out in Ohakune, the Lodge’s calendar is the go-to: DJs, bands and costumed parties keep the après-ski energy pumping every winter week (www.turoalodge.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Tickets and Booking
Turoa Lodge has no formal box office. For the routine DJ nights and theme parties, you usually don’t need to buy anything in advance – just arrive in the evening and pay the cover (if any) at the door (www.ticketfairy.com ). Many regular nights are actually free entry (especially early before 9pm) or carry a very small fee. The Lodge’s own website and Facebook page announce if a night will have a cover charge – often listing “free entry if you’re early” or similar. For the larger headline events (Mardi Gras after-party, special headline bands, New Year’s parties, etc.), tickets can sell out, so advance purchase is recommended. When those bigger nights do sell tickets, they are generally purchased through local promoters, community pages or the Lodge’s newsletter (often as “RSVP links” or ticket bundles rather than a national site) (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
That said, the Lodges’s capacity is small, so for very popular shows it pays to plan. Keep an eye on the Turoa Lodge social feed or local event sites for announcements (they might mention ticket packages or early bird passes). If no advance tickets are available, the norm is “turn up early and queue” – the cover is modest (dozens of NZ dollars at most), and both cash and card are usually accepted at the door (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you’re looking to stay the night in Ohakune, note that the Lodge’s two rooms (a queen and a twin) are booked through the same system as its vacation-rental site or via hotel booking platforms. (Rates are generally quite affordable outside peak ski weeks, rising to perhaps double-digit NZ$ per person per night in high season.) Check availability early for busy winter weeks – the rooms tend to fill up alongside the Lodge’s events (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Seating and Layout
The interior of 10 Thames Street really feels like a classic ski-bar. Inside, a long wooden bar counter dominates one side, surrounded by a handful of high stools and small tables. Opposite is a roaring open fireplace (fed by native timber) with a few couches and low lounge tables around it (www.ticketfairy.com ). The ceiling is high with exposed beams, ski equipment articles decorate the walls, and even a glass-roofed conservatory room (nicknamed “The Gazebo” in old press reports (paperspast.natlib.govt.nz )) gives a bit of old-world charm. The stage area is small – essentially a raised DJ booth and tiny band platform against one wall – so most of the space is an open dance-floor and standing area in front of it (www.ticketfairy.com ).
There are no reserved or VIP sections – all viewing is general admission at floor level (www.ticketfairy.com ). Latecomers will find the best views by staking out a spot early on the front edge of the dancefloor or leaning against the wall by the DJ booth. If you prefer to sit, your best bet is one of the high tables or stools near the bar, or the couch area by the fire which is quieter (though still full of partiers). On a busy night the acoustics can get very loud, so standing up close to the speakers or dancing is the most intense sound experience (www.ticketfairy.com ). Guests often leave backpacks or ski gear near the wall or couch before hitting the dancefloor – staff know skiers come straight from the slopes, so having ski boots by the fire is common. Restrooms (one each for men and women) are located just off the main hall; in peak winter hours there can be a short queue, so factor that in between DJs.
Getting There and Parking
Address: 10 Thames Street (State Highway 49), Ohakune 4625 NZ – at the junction with the Ohakune Mountain Road. The lodge sits literally at the base of the mountain road, about a 5-minute walk south from the core Junction area of town (www.ticketfairy.com ). If driving, plug “10 Thames Street, Ohakune” into any GPS or map app: the lodge is well signposted among the cluster of alpine lodges on that block, with a small street-level entrance.
Parking: There is a small on-site car park immediately next to the Lodge with a few free spaces (www.ticketfairy.com ). These fill up fast on busy nights, so have a backup plan. Nearby street parking on Thames Street (pay-and-display) and in the Junction precinct is available – you can park a little farther away for free and walk back (but watch for icy sidewalks in winter). Note this is an open, uncovered lot: it’s wise to hide valuables out of sight if leaving your car overnight.
Public transit: Ohakune’s main rail link is the Scenic “Northern Explorer” train (between Auckland and Wellington), which stops at Ohakune station about 3 km north of town. To reach 10 Thames St from the station, flag down a local taxi/shuttle (Ruapehu Cabs or similar) or arrange a drop-off from InterCity coaches (most buses stop in town near the i-SITE visitor center). There is no regular city bus system in Ohakune, so most visitors rely on scheduled ski shuttles or taxis. In winter especially, many tourists arrive on coach shuttles (for example Dempsey Snow Xpress from Wellington or local ski buses) that serve Ohakune and can drop passengers off near the junction of Thames and Mountain Road (www.ticketfairy.com ). For local pick-ups, it’s best to pre-book a taxi (Uber is not reliable in rural areas here). At late night, have a taxi number ready because ranks and ride-share are sparse after bars close (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Airports: The closest airports are Whanganui (about 100 km west; ~90 min drive) and Palmerston North (160 km SE; ~2.5 hr drive). Many international visitors fly into Wellington or Auckland and then take the North–South train or highway route via National Park/Tongariro to reach Ohakune. During winter months, people often combine a flight into WLG with a Dempsey shuttle van (which stops in Ohakune) for door-to-door transport. Whichever way, the final leg to 10 Thames St is scenic – it’s near the identifiably carrot-themed bridge and just off the snow-laden Highway 49. (www.ticketfairy.com )
Inside the Venue
Walking in the door, expect a bustling, pub-atmosphere with a mountain touch. The entry area leads you straight to the bar, where friendly bar staff mingle with customers over beers and spirits. The lodge is officially R18 after dark, so by late evening a bouncer or doorman will scan IDs for anyone who looks under 25 (www.ticketfairy.com ). (If you arrive just for dinner or early drinks, it may be more relaxed on age enforcement.) Bag checks are quick and routine on busy nights. There is no formal coat check – most guests simply drape jackets over one of the wall pegs or benches inside (www.ticketfairy.com ). For skiers, staff will often point out the wooden wall hooks near the fire where wet gear stays clear of walkways.
The atmosphere is homey and high-energy at once. In winter especially it feels like a ski lodge lounge meets nightclub: expect hearty NZ pub oompah and winter tunes from the sound system. Live sports may play on a TV behind the bar occasionally, but music and conversation dominate. Patrons often come in ski goggles or even helmets still on, which the staff cheerfully tolerate – they’re used to people pouring in straight from the mountain road. The Lodge has free high-speed Wi-Fi for guests (plenty fast, around 500+ Mbps in reviews (www.ticketfairy.com )), so you can grab concert set times or post selfies in a flash – just remember to tuck phones away during stage performances when flash can be distracting. The bar keeps a full stock of local beers, wines and spirits, including après-ski cocktails. There are usually a few simple bar snacks or opened-bag chips, but no formal kitchen: think peanuts, fries or burgers over a grill.
Other amenities: a small stage area is used for band shows or DJs, and a narrow side deck out back serves as a smoking and fresh-air break space. Merchandise tables can pop up for special shows (band CDs or Lodge T-shirts), but the core experience is the dancing and socialising. Bathrooms are on either side of the entrance hall (one men’s, one women’s); they are clean but can have a short queue on peak nights, so time your breaks between sets. Overall, inside 10 Thames St feels like a familiar ski campfire party – the kind where ski socks dry on radiators and locals cheer your helmet gear while strangers become friends on the dancefloor.
Nearby Amenities
10 Thames St sits amid most of Ohakune’s key nightlife and dining. Right next door (at 4 Thames) is The Kitchen , a popular Mexican-Asian fusion bar-restaurant. The Kitchen serves bold street-food flavors – tacos, bowls, hearty burgers and craft cocktails – in a lively rustic pub setting (thekitchenohakune.nz ). It’s open afternoons till late, with a fireplace lounge and regular live music of its own. Also on Thames (a block north) is the Cleveland Pub (formerly Corks wine bar), known for local beer on tap and pub grub in a cosy beer-hall style. A few hundred metres away lies Tiger Palace on Ayr Street (Chinese and Thai cuisine) and Rice Bar (Thai curry and noodle house). For classic Kiwi fare, the Matterhorn Lodge & Grill on Ayr is a family-friendly pub with a giant fireplace and hearty Kiwi menu (steaks, pies, seafood).
Ohakune’s most famous bar, the Powderkeg at Powderhorn Chateau, is just a short walk northwest up Rimu Street (about 200 m). The Powderkeg is an alpine institution – open since 1989 – and is “the place” for après-ski curry, roast dinners or pizzas, plus local beers and cocktails (www.powderhorn.co.nz ). Its cozy lounge and fireplace make it a great alternative spot to grab a meal or beers before heading to the Lodge for nightlife. Also nearby on Rimu is the upscale Station Hotel (breweries on tap, scenic terrace) and Cactus Jack’s for classic whisky-bar vibes.
For accommodation, there are several options steps from 10 Thames: Station Lodge (down the block at 60 Thames) is a large friendly hostel/lodge that can sleep group travelers and has a hot-tub and communal kitchen (www.stationlodge.co.nz ). A short stroll away is Two Rivers Ohakune (44 Burns Street) – a boutique riverside bed & breakfast about 400 m northeast (www.tworiversohakune.com ). Of course, Powderhorn Chateau (with the Powderkeg) is also lodging, as is Manuka Lodge (on Ngauruhoe Street).
Starbucks-style coffee stops and cafes are just off Thames too: Dagwoods Cafe on Rimu (great espresso and brunch), or Groove Train for Italian plates behind the Steakhouse. If you arrive early, grabbing a pre-show dinner at any of these spots is safe: most pubs and restaurants serve until 8–9 pm at least. Late-night, the Two Rivers cocktail bar or Powderkeg are open past midnight on weekends, and a 24-hour bakery (“Komati”) near the i-SITE sells pies and drinks for walk-in crowds after Turoa Lodge closes.
What Makes This Venue Special
Turoa Lodge at 10 Thames Street is deeply woven into Ohakune’s ski-town identity. Architecturally it still looks like a mountain chalet left behind by the 1950s ski-builders: heavy timbers, a pitched roof, and relics of pioneer skiing decorate the walls (www.ticketfairy.com ). Unlike a slick city club, it has character – wet ski socks, old-school Kiwiana decor, and a fireplace that “guarantees a fun and hospitable atmosphere” (www.powderhorn.co.nz ). It’s one of the few True Kiwi pubs left in town, so it doubles as a museum of local lore.
Legendary nights at the Lodge have become local folklore: for decades skiers will tell you about dancing in the snow outside or crashing a wild Rocky Horror ski-tights party here. Every winter, longtime patrons feel a sense of tradition – it’s where first tracks meet last-call. Even for visiting bands, it’s a prized warm-up gig – the close quarters right in the heart of Ohakune’s ski hub means performances feel intimate and raw.
In terms of impact, the Lodge energizes the entire Junction precinct. It was the first place in Ohakune to stay open officially after 10 pm (paperspast.natlib.govt.nz ), so it literally extended the town’s nightlife. Culturally, it’s involved in festivals (like Mardi Gras) and charity: the staff often help run ski-related fundraisers, golf days and music sessions. Winter events in Ohakune simply aren’t the same without a Turoa Lodge afterparty. Many local artists and bands credit the Lodge as their first gig venue. In short, this address is special because it feels like *home base* for winter fun – a timeless alpine clubhouse that scientists might say radiates warmth on its own. (www.ticketfairy.com ) (paperspast.natlib.govt.nz )
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Lodge is on ground level, but it is an old building. The main floor has flat access from the street; the only steps are tiny entry-sill thresholds. Wheelchair users and strollers can reach the bar area, but be aware the dance floor space is often packed. (There is a small accessible toilet near the entrance.) For hearing-impaired patrons, note that it’s a loud venue with no special audio services.
Age/Entry policy: The bar is 18+ after dark (and often 18+ all night, even on themed nights). Always bring photo ID – expect to show it at the door after about 9 pm (www.ticketfairy.com ). Underage guests (those with ski passes, kids, etc.) aren’t allowed inside to watch or eat beyond early evening. If you have a baby or are heading here with family, plan to finish dinner and leave before the DJs start (around 9–10 pm).
Dress code: There is none formal – come as you are (ski gear, jeans & hoodie, full-on costume) and you’ll fit right in. Theme nights encourage costumes (balmy beachwear in winter, fancy dress attires, etc.), and best costumes often win prizes. Otherwise regular snow-retreat attire is perfect – warm layers, wool socks and sweatshirts (the bar can still feel cool with the door opening). Leave high heels at home though; sturdy shoes are safest on the potentially slushy floor.
Bags & camera: Small bags and purses are allowed, but large backpacks may be checked if security is tight. There’s no cloakroom, so you might be asked to hang bags on a peg. Phones and small cameras are fine (Instagram the crowd!), but don’t use flash or video the performers when asked – staff take care to not disrupt bands and DJs.
What to bring: In your pocket: cash and card both. The Lodge has a modest cover fee on some nights (NZ$5–$15 typically) so have a little cash just in case. Drinks and meals are same-day pay. A phone charger or extra battery pack can be handy since there are few charging outlets. Earplugs for sensitive ears is a good idea – the music system can blast pretty loudly late at night (often with local rock or dance hits).
Common mistakes: Don’t walk in on an empty stomach if you’re coming late – food is limited and kitchens close by 8 pm. Instead, grab a bite at one of the nearby eateries (see Nearby Amenities). Don’t assume it’s open year-round: check the winter event calendar online – many months in spring/summer it may be closed. And finally, don’t park illegally on the street hoping to dash inside – parking patrols do ticket, so stick to the lodge lot or town carparks.
Best seats: If it’s a quiet night, pick a couch by the fire for comfort (www.ticketfairy.com ). On a busy night, the “best view” is usually on the dance floor near the front (or leaning on a wall if you just want a better view of the stage area) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Early-arrivers often claim spots by the bar walls or compact booth tables. Just remember – if you arrive late when it’s packed, the center area between the bar and stage will be chaos, so settle to the sides for easier exits.
Insider tip: Locals know that during peak winter midday (when the kitchen fires up) is a hidden quiet hour – sneak in for a drink or listen to the jukebox without crowds if you like. Also, ask the bartender about the Lodge’s “ski pass nights” – sometimes on special dates, park pass holders get a drink special. Finally, if you find yourself in line outside, strike up a chat – people here are friendly and the night usually starts among new friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 10 Thames Street the same as Turoa Lodge?
Yes. 10 Thames Street is the address of Turoa Lodge. You'll often see events advertised at "10 Thames St", but the venue is officially called Turoa Lodge Ohakune, a winter ski-bar and lodge (www.ticketfairy.com ).
What kind of events are held at 10 Thames Street?
Most events are live music, DJ dance parties and themed costume nights during the winter season (www.turoalodge.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Expect weekly parties, tribute band shows, Mardi Gras afterparties and local band gigs. Outside winter it rarely hosts events.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
For most nights there is no advance ticket – you pay on the door (often no cover or a small fee) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Prepaid tickets are only needed for large special events (like Mardi Gras parties or major concerts) which are announced in advance. If in doubt, check the lodge’s calendar: regular shows are “pay at door” (www.ticketfairy.com ).
What are the age restrictions at Turoa Lodge?
Turoa Lodge is generally 18+ after dark. Photo ID is checked for most evening shows (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you’re bringing family, plan to leave (or have everyone under 18 go home) before 9–10pm. During earlier hours (dinner/pub time) it can be more relaxed, but expect strict R18 policy once parties start.
How do I get to 10 Thames Street Ohakune?
By car, use GPS or maps and set destination to “10 Thames Street Ohakune.” It’s right at the junction with Ruapehu Road. If arriving by bus or train, get off at Ohakune town and take a short taxi or walk (about 5 minutes) south to the mountain junction (www.ticketfairy.com ). The Northern Explorer train stops at Ohakune Station (3 km north) and InterCity buses stop in town.
Is there parking at the venue?
Yes, there is a small private lot adjacent to Turoa Lodge with free parking (www.ticketfairy.com ). It’s first-come, so arrive early on busy nights. Additional public parking (paid or on-street) is available nearby on Thames Street or in the Junction shopping area. Be sure not to block fire lanes and lock valuables in your car.
What is the capacity of the venue?
It’s fairly small. Think tens of people, not hundreds. Turoa Lodge is essentially a pub with a dance floor rather than a big hall. Reviews note it holds only a few tables of seating and a central dance floor (www.ticketfairy.com ). On a packed night it still feels intimate – every table or barstool is in view of the music.
What should I wear to an event at 10 Thames Street?
Dress code is casual ski town attire. Come in jeans, warm layers, ski jackets or even fancy-dress if it’s a theme night (www.ticketfairy.com ). Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to dance. High heels or formal clothes are out of place here. Snapback hats, fleece jackets and even ski gear are perfectly fine – many patrons arrive straight from the slopes and keep their outdoor clothing on.
Are there good seats or viewing areas?
Seating is general-admission. Best spots for watching the action are usually at the edge of the dance floor near the stage, or any of the benches along the walls. A cozy alternative is the couch by the fireplace if you want a break from dancing (www.ticketfairy.com ). There are no reserved sections or balconies – it’s all one open space (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Can I bring a camera?
Small cameras and phones are allowed, but no professional photo equipment (and no flash on shows). In practice, patrons often snap photos with phones during quieter moments. If you want to film the performers, check with staff first – flash photography is usually discouraged once a band starts (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Are there food and drink options inside?
The lodge primarily has a bar: beer, wine and spirits, plus cocktails. The kitchen is minimal – expect bar snacks (fries, nachos, burgers) rather than a full menu. Many people eat dinner elsewhere before coming. On big nights the bar stays open and beans, and staff sometimes serve simple burgers or warm finger-foods to keep the crowd going.
Is 10 Thames Street accessible for wheelchairs?
Partially. The main area is at street level, so there are no major stairs to enter. A wheelchair can roll into the open bar/dance floor. However, space can be tight on busy nights and the doorways are best navigated with assistance. There is one unisex restroom near the entrance that has grab bars. If accessibility is crucial, consider calling ahead – the venue is smaller and not fully optimized for wheelchair users.
How late is the venue open?
Turoa Lodge usually opens around 9–11am (breakfast/lunch on weekends) or by 5pm for dinner on party nights. In winter party season it stays open until 2am or later on weekends (and usually around midnight on weeknights). In the off-season it may close earlier or shut off entirely – always check their website or social media for seasonal hours.
When should I arrive for a popular event?
If the night is ticketed or expected to sell out (big themes, concerts), arrive early. Doors often open around 8–9pm. Many locals will show up by 8pm on big nights to be first in line (www.ticketfairy.com ). Getting there before the advertised start time (or as soon after 9pm as possible) will ensure a spot on the dance floor and avoid disappointment.
Is there an outdoor area or smoking section?
Yes. A small covered deck out back serves as the smoking and fresh-air zone. It has a railing but no heating – you’ll feel the mountain chill there. It’s also where people often step outside to take phone calls or hang winter coats for a moment. Just mind the gap at the door threshold when heading out.
Can I smoke inside?
No, smoking is only permitted in the outdoor deck area. New Zealand law bans indoor smoking in all bars. If you need a cigarette, just step outside; the deck is right next to the main room.
What are common tips to avoid a bad experience?
Two quick tips: arrive early on peak nights (so you’re not shut out) and dress warmly when walking home. Ohakune nights get cold, and snow or ice can linger on streets late at night. Also, watch your drink on the dance floor – it can get crowded. But don’t worry too much: folks here look out for each other, and staff at the bar keep a good eye on the crowd.
