Events at King Bar, Ohakune, Manawatu-Wanganui

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TREI with MC JabZ (Ohakune)

8:00 PM, Sat, 3 Aug 2019

Aug

King Bar

Ohakune

About King Bar

King Bar (often referred to as Kings Ohakune Bar & Restaurant) is a historic multi-purpose venue at 3 Rimu Street in Ohakune’s central “Junction” precinct . Originally opened as the Kings Court Hotel in October 1913 , it is the oldest continuously operating hotel in the Ruapehu region. Today the building houses a 3-star hotel (with around 25 ensuite rooms, two of which are wheelchair-accessible ), plus a bar, restaurant and event hall. The bar area is known for its grand rustic interior – polished timber floors and walls lined with historical memorabilia have led travel writers to call it “a hymn to living history” . An iron or kauri-timber tower with a pillared canopy, famously lowered into place by mountaineer Peter Hillary in 1980, crowns the façade , making the building instantly recognisable. Out back and upstairs there are standard hotel guest rooms, lodge-style bunkrooms and a small spa. Overlooking the railway station and with clear views of Mt. Ruapehu , Kings Bar is a landmark at the Junction end of Ohakune. Its cozy alpine-pub atmosphere, big dance floor and locally-inspired menu make it notable both to tourists and the local community. What makes King Bar unique is this blend of old-world character and year-round activity. The bar prides itself on showcasing the region: for example, one reviewer loved their “Kings Fried Chicken Burger” and the house “Carrot Margarita” cocktail made with local carrots . Kings is also the only pub in town pouring Ruapehu Brewing Company beers on tap . Owners Stu and Dee Robinson (responsible since 2016) intentionally highlight Central Plateau produce on the menu . The timbered interior and expansive deck with mountain views give it a friendly, lived-in vibe – recent guests rave about the “great atmosphere” and “friendly locals” they met there . Kings Bar’s building is truly interwoven with Ohakune’s heritage, from its original train-meet-and-greet era to evenings of live music and dancing. It functions as both a social hub for residents and a must-visit stop for travelers exploring Tongariro National Park.

Events and Programming

King Bar hosts a wide variety of events. As a live-music venue, it regularly features local bands, solo singer-songwriters and DJs. The website boasts having “hosted a raft of musicians and DJs over the years” . Past acts have included top NZ artists (e.g. rock star Jon Toogood of Shihad, who played a solo acoustic show there) , as well as comedy acts and touring tribute shows. An intimate stage and large checkered dance floor occupy the main hall, and many kinds of entertainment have been presented – from concerts to spoken-word gigs, film screenings and even theatre pieces . For example, Kings was the Ohakune venue for the annual “Big Bike Film Night” cycling movie series (shown on a massive 121″ projector screen ). Some programming is seasonal or recurring. A signature event is the Ohakune Beer Festival (typically held at Easter). Kings Bar launched the inaugural Beer Festival in 2021, and due to its success it now runs each Easter weekend . Even that event is split into a family-friendly afternoon followed by an adults-only evening (e.g. children admitted free until 5pm, then R18 after dark) . In winter and summer, you may also find ski-season parties, quiz/trivia nights, themed DJ nights and charity events. On top of entertainment, Kings Bar remains open nightly as a restaurant and pub, attracting walk-in diners and sports fans (it has “the largest screen in town” for viewing major games ). Ticket prices at King Bar vary widely. Local DJ or band nights are often free or charge just a small cover, while larger touring acts and festivals usually set tickets in the $30–$60 range (roughly similar to other NZ regional venues). For example, past listings for comedy or live music shows at Kings range from no-cover nights to $40+ concert tickets. Since events are run by different promoters, potentially using TicketFairy, Flicket or box-office arrangements, it’s best to check each event page for exact prices. In smaller venue style, many Kings shows allow door sales on the night if not sold out – often payment by card or cash is fine at the door.

Tickets and Booking

Tickets for Kings Ohakune events are sold through various channels. Many larger shows use online ticketing services or directly through the event organizers. However, you can also often buy tickets directly from the venue. The Kings Bar box office will sell tickets in person (or by phone) as long as seats remain. In fact, the bar’s info notes that reservations and booking can be made by calling the venue at 06-385 8648 or messaging their Facebook page . Fans should follow Kings Ohakune’s social media or the event promoter’s page to be alerted when tickets first go on sale. Popular local shows may sell out in advance, so buying early is wise. Closer to showtime, unsold tickets typically go on sale at the door. For major acts, tickets usually become available a few months ahead, with early-bird or member prices occasionally offered. More commonly though, simplistic pricing is used (one main tier). Ticket categories like general admission or VIP might exist for big concerts (sometimes a small premium for reserved seats if offered). The only guaranteed way to secure a place is via official tickets – avoid scalpers. On event day, the venue usually opens about an hour before curtain (check local flyers). If buying at the door, expect to queue and bring ID if you plan to drink. The Kings Ohakune reservation line above is useful if you prefer to book tickets or tables ahead for community gigs or sports viewing nights.

Seating and Layout

Inside King Bar (Kings Ohakune) is mostly one large open room. The centerpiece is a hardwood dance floor and low stage at one end . This dance floor (often described as checkered) is used for concerts and parties, and is reputedly the biggest in Ohakune . Along the sides and rear of the hall are scattered bar stools, cafe-style tables and booths. The bar itself runs along one wall, and a huge movie screen (often used for sports and film nights) dominates another wall . The ceiling has exposed timber beams, contributing to the cozy pub ambiance noted by reviewers . There is also a separate raised “Cinema Room” space inside, used for presentations and private hire, with seating up to about 30 or 60 people depending on setup . (That room has a fireplace and can be closed off from the main bar.) For most live-music events, the venue is standing-room general admission. There are no clearly numbered seats in front of the stage. Concert-goers typically crowd the dancefloor area directly facing the stage for the best view and sound. If you prefer sitting, the rear tables or the side areas (near the entrance) offer a little bench seating but with a longer sightline. The private dining/cinema space can sometimes be used for reserved seating if arranged, but back-to-back concert nights are generally open-plan. As a local tip, arriving early will secure a good position – diehard fans often stand right at the stage rail. The venue’s sound system and lighting are handled by professional contractors, ensuring quality audio/visual even on a wooden dancefloor .

Getting There and Parking

King Bar (3 Rimu Street, Ohakune) is conveniently located at the western end of town, just beside the train station. The address is often given as “3 Rimu St, Ohakune Junction” . From State Highway 1/4, you turn off onto Rimu Street; it’s about a 3 km drive from the main intersection . The bar overlooks the Junction with panoramic views of Mt. Ruapehu out front . Parking: The venue has its own gravel car park behind the building, which holds roughly 20–25 vehicles . During peak season or big events this lot can fill, so extra parking is available on nearby side streets (Rimu, Norman, Riddiford) and public lots. Ohakune generally has free short-term parking in town unless signed otherwise. There is also more parking near the train station platforms a block away. Keep in mind some lots may have time limits. Public transportation: Straddling State Highway and rail, Kings is very accessible. The northern spur of the KiwiRail Junction branch terminates at Ohakune station literally opposite the bar. The daily Northern Explorer (Auckland–Wellington) train stops at Ohakune, so in winter and summer you can literally alight right at Kings Bar’s front door . There is no dedicated town bus, but long-distance coaches (InterCity buses) serve Ohakune’s central bus stop, which is a short stroll away on the main street. (From Highway 1, Terrance Street has a coach stop near Rugby Park.) Rideshare apps like Uber are not really active in small towns, so plan ahead. Local taxi firms can drop you off directly in front of the bar if booked in advance.

Inside the Venue

On entry to King Bar, expect a warm alpine-pub vibe. During ticketed events there is usually a small door staff checking IDs (for 18+ nights) and/or tickets. Inside, the ambiance is lively but relaxed. Hardwood floors and timber walls give it a classic rustic feel; memorabilia such as vintage photos and old pub signs adorn the walls . One travel writer says the room is “atmospheric” with a rich timber interior that makes it feel like a cosy tavern . The bar area is well-stocked. Kings prides itself on local brews and cuisine. On tap are Ruapehu Brewing Company’s craft beers (they are the exclusive on-tap host in town) , alongside a selection of wines, ciders and spirits. In fact, the bar’s cocktail menu includes local nods – the “Carrot Margarita” (with carrot juice) is an Ohakune specialty . The kitchen (open nightly from late afternoon) serves up New Zealand pub classics – burgers, steak, fish n’ chips, and the like – all made with locally-sourced ingredients as part of the owners’ vision to highlight regional produce . One reviewer raved about the fried chicken burger and a rich cheese board enjoyed on the scenic deck. Food and drink are reasonably priced by NZ standards (entrees and mains in the $15–25 range, pints $9–12 typically). Alcoholic drinks cover everything from standard beers and house wines to premium spirits and specialty cocktails. (The bar also has non-alcoholic juices, sodas and tea/coffee.) There are no outside beverages allowed – all drinking occurs from the in-house bar service. Amenities: The venue has public restrooms (toilets and a disabled toilet) near the back. There is no formal coat checked area – patrons usually hang coats or leave them at their tables. Wi-Fi is available onsite (the hotel’s Kings Hotel WiFi access), with codes provided to guests and often announced in-house . Cell phone reception is decent inside, and free charging ports are scattered around. Smoking is only permitted in the outdoor areas; cigarettes are not allowed inside the bar.

Nearby Amenities

The bar is in the heart of Ohakune, so you are never far from other services. For pre-show dining or drinks elsewhere, Rimu Street and nearby Seddon Street (the main drag) offer several options. Within a few hundred metres you’ll find international options (Indian, Thai, Chinese), cafes and bakeries (for grab-and-go breakfast or lunch), and other pubs and restaurants. A popular nearby eatery is the “Snowman Lodge & Spa” (offering a Thai kitchen), and family-run cafes line the road for quick bites or coffee. If Kings itself is busy, a back-up plan could be to eat along the Junction (several shops are in easy walking distance). Hotels: Apart from staying at Kings’ own rooms, other lodgings are close by. For example, the Snowman Lodge (just around the block) and Alpine Heights Motel offer hotel rooms and spa facilities. Backpacker hostels and holiday parks with cabins are also in the immediate area. The whole village is compact – guests from far-flung resorts often choose Kings or caravan parks for central access. So if you need a room, you have a range of options within a short walk. Late-night options: If you need late-night travel, note that Ohakune is small. The Northern Explorer leaves town early in the morning and doesn’t run at night. The last InterCity coach is often the evening bus. There are no 24-hour shuttles; for after-midnight returns you’d rely on a local taxi or private arrangement. Similarly, rideshare drivers are rare up here. In practice, most visitors either stay the night, hitch a ride home, or make sure to catch a taxi (you can find one by ringing the lodge or bar staff to arrange pickup).

What Makes This Venue Special

King Bar’s uniqueness comes from its combination of history, character, and community role. Architecturally, the century-old façade and timber interior set it apart – the kauri-pillared tower on the roof has a quirky origin and lends a fairytale quality. Its place in local lore is strong: the Junction has long been Ohakune’s meeting point and Kings is at the center of it. The walls are practically a small museum, displaying advertisements and memorabilia dating back to the 1920s . Culturally, it feels less commercial than a chain pub; many locals see it as a community living room. Reviews often note the warm “Kiwi hospitality” and the way Kings brings people together over good beer and music . Two features stand out. First, Kings has the town’s largest dance floor and stage, so for bands or dance nights it feels like the place to be . Locals often say it “does what it says on the tin” as a pub – boasting a solid kitchen, live entertainment and a friendly crowd. Second, the connections to place: it is a recognized partner of the Mountain to Sea cycle trail and often the last stop for bikers or hikers heading in or out of the Ruapehu range. The menu and drink list strongly reflect the region (featuring local venison dishes, alpine botanicals, etc.). Even traditions like Wednesday wing-nights and seasonal beer festivals help reinforce its centrality in the town’s life. Performance-wise, many visiting artists appreciate the venue’s cozy vibe. It’s common to hear that playing at Kings feels like playing in front of local friends – the sound crew (from DoubleDrop AV) ensures the sound is “sharp” so bands enjoy the technical side . For audiences, King Bar captures the rural pub spirit: live music is loud but the feel is still unpretentious. The friendly banter at the bar and spontaneous singalongs during gigs are part of the charm.

Visitor Tips and Information

To get the most out of a Kings visit, a few practical pointers help. First, arrive early for big shows. The space is comfortable but fills up; getting there at opening time (often an hour before the act) will help you claim a good spot or table. Dress is casual – it’s a mountain hamlet, so jeans and sneakers are normal. If it’s cold or snowy season, a warm jacket will be needed outside on the deck, though inside is heated. Check the season: the bar reliably opens at 4pm each day in winter (during summer hours may vary – look them up on Facebook or by phone). Tables inside are first-come, so large groups might want to book in advance – the free phone number (06-385 8648 ) or Kings’ Facebook is the way to reserve a table or tickets. Bring valid ID if you plan to drink – New Zealand law requires 18+ ID checks, especially after 5pm. Note that after dark, Kings essentially becomes an R18 venue (common in NZ pubs). For example, children at the Easter Beer Festival were only permitted before 5pm . In practice, under-18s are usually welcome during the early evening or family events, but must leave when the last call for alcohol is made. The bar will card anyone who looks young. If you have accessibility needs, contact the venue in advance. While two hotel rooms are designed for wheelchairs , the bar floor is mostly flat entry-level (no steps to cross the floor, but the historic front door may have a small threshold). Staff will assist with any mobility concerns if asked. Wheelchair users should know: the main bar area is on ground level, and toilets include at least one disabled stall. For connectivity, Kings Hotel offers complimentary WiFi (ask at reception for the temporary password) . Otherwise phone service is adequate for all NZ carriers. The venue accepts credit/debit cards at the bar. Cash is also fine for cover charges or purchases. Avoid common mistakes: don’t expect Uber; arrange a taxi ahead if you can’t walk home (local cabs will drop off at the main entrance). If you smoke, only do so in the outdoor area. Outside drinks and food aren’t allowed inside, so leave your own beverages at home. Finally, be respectful of the old building and locals: it’s not a high-tech nightclub but a cherished traditional pub. Talking to the friendly staff or regulars can add to the experience.

What is the address of King Bar (Kings Ohakune)?

King Bar is located at 3 Rimu Street, Ohakune (the Junction end of town). It overlooks the train station and is easy to reach by car from State Highway 1/4.

What is the seating capacity of King Bar?

The bar/event space holds up to about 350 people . In practice, there are no fixed seats in the main hall (events are general admission standing on the dancefloor). The only fixed seating is in the adjacent small private dining room, which seats about 30–60 for dinner.

Is there parking available at King Bar?

Yes. The venue has an on-site parking lot behind the building (about 20–25 spaces) . If that fills, you can park on nearby streets or in the public car parks around the Junction area (short walk away). Parking in central Ohakune is generally free, but obey any posted limits.

How do I get to King Bar by public transport?

King Bar is right next to the Ohakune Railway Station. The Northern Explorer long-distance train stops here daily, so you can step off the train just outside the bar . For bus travelers, there is no local city bus, but InterCity coaches serve upper Ohakune – generally getting off at the town center means a 5-10 min walk to Rimu Street. After-hours, the best options are local taxi services (phone ahead to book a pickup) or staying overnight, since there is no Uber in Ohakune.

How can I buy tickets for events at King Bar?

Tickets are usually sold through the event promoter or Kings Ohakune directly. You can call the bar on 06-385 8648 (or message their Facebook) to reserve tickets or table seats . Many shows also use online sellers, so watch Kings’ social media for “on-sale” dates. If a show isn’t sold out, any remaining tickets are often available at the door before the event.

How much do tickets usually cost for King Bar events?

Ticket prices vary. Smaller local gigs or DJ nights are often free or under $20, while larger tours may charge $30–$60. It depends on the act. Typically, check the event page for the exact price. In general, expect family-friendly or local acts to be on the low end, and big-name bands or comedians near the higher end. Kids enter free to daytime festivals, but nights are usually 18+ entry.

Are children or families allowed at King Bar?

During special family-friendly events (like the Easter Beer Festival’s afternoon slot), children are welcome – often with free entry up to a certain time . In normal restaurant hours (late afternoon and early evening) kids of course can dine with parents. However, after 5pm King Bar operates as an 18+ licensed pub. In practice, children are not allowed inside during late-evening dances or bar nights. The venue is effectively R18 after dark, and valid ID will be required for anyone drinking.

Is there a dress code at King Bar?

No formal dress code. The atmosphere is casual and mountain-friendly. Regulars and visitors typically wear jeans, sweaters, and comfortable footwear (dress warmly in winter). For special events, smart-casual attire is fine, but you definitely don’t need to dress up formally. Just come as you are, but avoid muddy boots or wet ski gear indoors.

Does King Bar serve food and drinks?

Yes. King Bar is also a full-service restaurant. The kitchen opens around 4pm daily and offers a menu of Kiwi comfort food (burgers, steaks, fish & chips, etc.) made with local ingredients . The bar is fully licensed: they serve tap beers (including local Ruapehu Brewing ales) , wines, spirits and themed cocktails. You can order hearty meals, snacks and drinks just like any pub.

Is Wi-Fi available at King Bar?

Yes, there is internet access. Kings Hotel (the same complex) provides a Wi-Fi network for guests. Arriving visitors or in-house guests are given the login credentials at reception . As a courtesy, most patrons share the guest code. In general, free Wi-Fi is available with decent coverage around the bar and restaurant areas.

What time does King Bar open?

King Bar opens in the late afternoon. In winter it’s typically open by 4pm daily (summer hours may extend to lunch on some days, check local notices). The kitchen and dining area open then for dinner. Evening shows usually start around 7–8pm. The bar will serve drinks until late night (often 10pm or later on busy nights, but hours can vary). It’s best to check the current schedule on Kings’ website or Facebook for exact hours.

What is the seating arrangement for events at King Bar?

Shows at King Bar are generally standing-room on the main floor. The stage faces the open dance area, and people stand or bring folding chairs anywhere on the floor. The only fixed seating is in the private dining room (if booked). For the best view of a performance, stand up front by the stage; the sides and rear of the hall have a few free tables to sit if you arrive early. There are no assigned seats or balconies – pick your spot first-come.

Is King Bar wheelchair accessible?

The hotel portion of Kings has two rooms fitted for disability access . The bar/restaurant floor is on ground level with wide doorways, so wheelchairs can usually roll in without stairs. The interior floor is flat, though historic thresholds at the front entrance may require a small ramp. There is at least one unisex accessible restroom. It’s a good idea to call ahead and confirm specifics, but in general people with mobility needs can be accommodated.

Can I bring pets to King Bar?

No, pets are not permitted inside. King Bar is a licensed indoor venue and follows New Zealand law, which means only service animals (with identification) are allowed inside. You’ll need to make arrangements for your pet if you’re planning to spend time in the bar/restaurant.

Is King Bar part of a hotel and can I book accommodation?

Yes. King Bar is the bar/restaurant of Kings Ohakune Hotel. The hotel offers private rooms (about 25 ensuite rooms in total) for guests, along with shared dorm-style upstairs rooms . There’s even a small spa/pool onsite. You can book a room at Kings Ohakune just like any hotel (phone or online); this will give you 24-hour access to the facility and its amenities as well.

Events at King Bar, Ohakune, Manawatu-Wanganui

TREI with MC JabZ (Ohakune)

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