About The Stunned Mullet
The Stunned Mullet is a down-to-earth city-centre pub and live-music bar located at 1 The Square in downtown Palmerston North. It’s known locally for its relaxed, friendly vibe – one reviewer calls it “a cozy bar with a nice atmosphere and friendly staff” (wanderlog.com ). The bar offers a good range of beers on tap and a dozen or so snacks, but its defining feature is entertainment. In addition to serving classic pub drinks, The Stunned Mullet sports a bank of 18 gaming machines (known in New Zealand as “pokies” (pokiesnearme.co.nz )) and a small performance space for DJs and bands. The venue itself is quite intimate: one event listing warned that “capacity is very limited” (tickets often sell out quickly) (www.ticketfairy.com ). With seating around the bar and some extra tables on an upper level, it feels like a friendly local room rather than a big stadium. This intimate size helps create a close-knit energy for late-night music and club nights. The Stunned Mullet has become a staple of the Palmerston North nightlife scene – especially popular with students and young locals – thanks to its unique name, handy Square location, and reputation for unpretentious after-dark fun. Visitors note that it maintains a “welcoming environment” and is “a great place to relax” (wanderlog.com ), which makes it stand out among the city’s downtown pubs.
Events and Programming
The Stunned Mullet hosts a mix of live entertainment rather than formal theatre or sports events. On any given week you might find DJ dance nights, hip-hop and drum’n’bass showcases, open-mic or karaoke sessions, and the occasional live gig from local bands. For example, the pub is famous for its regular “open decks” student DJ night: every Thursday local drum’n’bass fans pack the floor for the weekly DnB Rinser, an open-decks party featuring Kiwi DJs (www.ticketfairy.com ). This student-focused night is a highlight on the week’s calendar, with promoters even billing special one-off concerts as “The Raiza Rinser” or similar. In fact, one event in late 2019 brought NZ rap artist Raiza Biza to perform his new album live, followed by the usual DJ set (www.ticketfairy.com ). Acts at The Stunned Mullet range from underground hip-hop to indie rock cover bands; local promoters occasionally run punk or metal shows, and popular regional groups will pop in on the way through town. In short, the venue thrives on nightlife programming – DJs, bands, MCs, and dance parties – rather than on sporting matches or touring national concerts.
Most shows are 18+, but the venue can occasionally run all-ages events in the early evening (as it did for that Raiza Biza concert) (www.ticketfairy.com ). There is no formal season schedule like a theatre, so dates and styles vary. Keep an eye on local listings – many events sell tickets in advance, while smaller nights are pay-at-door. Ticket prices are very affordable by city standards; for example, presale passes for popular hip-hop nights have been around NZ$9 with only a NZ$1 door surcharge (www.ticketfairy.com ). In practice, you might pay $10-$15 for most club shows. On quieter evenings there may be free entry or small cover. Because the space is small, it’s wise to arrive early night for a good spot or to snag a ticket before a sold-out show.
Tickets and Booking
The Stunned Mullet itself does not operate like a large concert hall with a box office. Tickets for special gigs or DJs are typically sold through local promoters or venue partner sites, and sometimes at the door if space remains. For example, a recent show advertised limited capacity and advised booking ahead, with advance tickets at $9 and only a small premium ($10) on the door (www.ticketfairy.com ). In general, popular shows at The Stunned Mullet either go on “presale” via online ticketing sites or have tickets available from festival-style outlets. Fans often watch the venue’s social media or local posters for announcements of upcoming acts, then grab tickets early. If an event is highly anticipated (such as an album tour or DJ night), it’s recommended to buy as soon as they’re released. For last-minute plans, casual entry is sometimes possible – though for busy nights or well-known bands you might risk missing out. There is no listed on-site box office open daily; casual visitors just pay a small door fee or cover charge if one applies. In short: check event listings early and assume advanced sale for big nights. Otherwise you can buy at the pub’s door, usually in cash or EFTPOS, as you enter.
Seating and Layout
The Stunned Mullet is laid out like a traditional pub with a twist. On the ground floor you’ll find the main bar counter with stools, a dance floor or standing area in front of the small stage/DJ booth, and some low tables scattered about. The walls are adorned with gaming machines (the 18 pokies) and neon signs. The overall bar area is compact and cozy – there’s a reviewer’s account of it being “small, tidy” (wanderlog.com ). Behind or to the side of the stage, one side has some booth seating along the wall. Importantly, the venue also has an upstairs area with additional seating (as one reviewer noted (wanderlog.com )). This upstairs section offers a place to sit away from the main floor noise, and likely contains a few high tables or bar chairs. It faces the dance floor, so you can still see the stage from above.
There are no reserved seats or ballroom-style chairs; the Stunned Mullet is largely general admission. On busy nights everyone stands or circulates freely, and the sound is loud and full-spectrum to work for dancing. If you want to lounge, grabbing seats upstairs or leaning against a wall table downstairs is best. Front-row standing spots are up close near the small stage, but the entire space is only a few metres wide, so nearly everyone has a reasonable view. Acoustically, the room is not huge, so vocals and beats come through clearly. Being an intimate venue, sound bleed to other rooms isn’t an issue – rather, the challenge is managing volume for peak hours. Rest assured, sound system and lighting are set up professionally for DJ performances: the producer listing for events notes things like “DJ set with sickest DJs” (www.ticketfairy.com ). In practice, any spot gives a good perspective on the stage or DJ booth – either down on the floor or from the vantage upstairs.
Getting There and Parking
The Stunned Mullet’s address is 1 The Square, Palmerston North 4410 , right in the heart of the central business district. It sits on the northern edge of The Square (the central park/reservoir area) where Main Street meets several downtown streets. Because it is on The Square, it’s extremely central and pedestrian-friendly: the main city bus hub is literally adjacent. In fact, all intercity coaches (InterCity buses) and local routes stop on The Square near the i-SITE and the city’s bus exchange (www.intercity.co.nz ). So if you’re coming by bus or coach, just get off at The Square and you’re a minute’s walk from the pub. There is also a taxi stand and rideshare drop-off point usually on one of The Square’s sides, so hailing an Uber or Nana is straightforward – tell them “The Square, Palmy” and they’ll let you out one street away.
If driving, Palmerston North offers plenty of public parking around the city centre. On-street metered parking rings The Square – note the city council rules. Council information notes that from Monday–Friday you must pay ($2.50 per hour on street) (www.pncc.govt.nz ), with paid hours generally 8.30am–5.30pm on weekdays (and 11am–3pm on Saturday) (www.pncc.govt.nz ) (www.pncc.govt.nz ). Street parking is free on Sundays and before 11am on Saturdays (www.pncc.govt.nz ), so early evening shows on weekdays or late-night events on weekend nights can often use adjacent metered spaces. There are also several nearby multi-storey car parks. For example, the "Fitz" car park on Ferguson Street (a close block away) and the Council Square Car Park offer all-day or hourly parking (about $1 per hour or a flat ~$5 day (www.pncc.govt.nz )). Note many of these carparks join the metered payment system – you’ll typically pay at an exit pay-station or with a phone app. Overall, you can park on the street or in one of the small city decks within a 2–3 minute walk. Just check the posted signs (blue “P$” signs) for any time limits. In short, driving is easy: enter the town centre, and there’s usually a spot within a few blocks of 1 The Square. (Tip: if you prefer free parking, any off-street lot at the edge of the CBD has multiple free hours outside the ring road (www.pncc.govt.nz ), then stroll in.)
Inside the Venue
Walking into The Stunned Mullet, expect a casual, pub-like entry with the usual NZ bar checks. At the door you may have your ID checked (especially after dark) to verify age – the venue enforces the 18+ drinking laws tightly (though earlier-evening events may be all-ages). Bag searches or pat-downs for large items are routine for crowd safety, particularly on busy nights. Inside, the decor is unpretentious: wooden bar polished under neon lights, local posters on the walls, and gaming machines lining a bit of corner space. The pub’s friendly bartenders take orders in a relaxed Kiwi manner. There is no coat check – most people keep coats at their tables or stand near the walls when dancing. Restrooms are on the ground floor (typically a men’s and women’s near the back), and one stall is an accessible unisex loo (as required by NZ law for public bars). Sink and hand-dryer facilities are normal for a city pub.
Alcohol is served at the bar – you order and pay as you go. On gig nights the bar lines can get long early, so it’s wise to grab drinks before big breaks. They take cash and cards. The Stunned Mullet’s list is mostly beers and ciders, with a few cocktails and spirits. Happy hour deals have occasionally been offered early in the evening on certain nights. There is no full kitchen, but the bar usually sells snack food (bar nibbles, bagged crisps, sometimes hot chicken wings) – think typical pub food. For full meals, people either eat beforehand or grab something afterward (see Nearby Amenities). The pub staff are known for being welcoming and chatty, even remembering regulars’ names. They’ll meltdown or discuss bands with you, which adds to the friendly atmosphere noted by patrons (wanderlog.com ).
Regarding connectivity: the venue does not supply public Wi-Fi, so your phone will use your mobile data (coverage in the CBD is generally good). There is an ATM machine inside or just outside, a courtesy mentioned by visitors (wanderlog.com ). You may see people whipping out laptops or game devices at quieter times (or students doing work on quieter afternoons, since it opens at 11am on weekdays (pokiesnearme.co.nz )). Note: photography is usually casual on phones, but professional cameras or video equipment might need permission if a show is ticketed. Don’t expect plush VIP boxes or fancy lounges – the vibe here is “everyone in the bar together.” If you want a breather from the crowd, the upstairs seating area or leaning against the balcony railing is a good spot. For musicians and DJs, the stage area has standard PA speakers and stage lights. One organiser’s note mentioned “sick DJs and open decks” so gear is club-quality (www.ticketfairy.com ). Finally, as with any drinking venue in NZ: please bring a valid photo ID if you look under 25. Dress is casual – jeans, t-shirt or jacket – no heels or formal wear required. The atmosphere inside the pub is very laid-back and inclusive, emphasizing music and socialising without pretense (wanderlog.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Nearby Amenities
The Stunned Mullet’s central location means many conveniences are within easy walking distance. If you want a meal before the show, the downtown area has a wide range of options. A quick 3-5 minute walk east down Main Street (toward Church Street) brings you to fast-casual outlets: Asian cafés, pizza shops, and Aussie bars. In fact, one of Palmy’s favourites, Little India, is a few blocks north on Rangitikei Street, offering curries and naan. The Square itself hosts casual food vans at times (especially for lunchtime events). Closer by, The Square’s corner hosts a subtle “cafe culture” – for example, Esquires Coffee*, Savacool*, or local bakeries where you can grab quick bites or coffee. (Check pub announcements: sometimes food trucks park up right outside on event nights.) Right across The Square, on Rangitikei Street, are some slightly higher-end bistros and grill houses if you want a sit-down dinner pre-show. The Square’s other pubs (like Lone Star Steakhouse, Kings, or Bourbon Street Bar) also serve food and have a lively pre-drinking crowd, if you prefer a bar-restaurant vibe before heading into The Stunned Mullet.
For post-show drinks or a nightcap, options are equally close. The city’s late-night bars cluster on The Square’s opposite corners and side streets. Within two blocks you’ll find nightclubs and bars serving cocktails and craft beer. Popular choices include Bronx Bar & Eatery on Main Street (a retro American diner vibe open late) and Metro Gastro Bar. These are walkable from The Stunned Mullet, so you can continue the evening downtown. Taxis and rideshare services are plentiful, but note that in Palmy people often share cabs – so having the address at hand helps (the taxi rank is just outside Te Marae o Hine/Bus Exchange). As for accommodation, there are several hotels within a few minutes’ walk if you’re in town overnight. The closest name-brand is the Distinction Palmerston North (just a block west on Church Street) or the more budget Ibis Budget a little farther. Both offer rooms within 400m. You’ll also find guesthouses and apartments nearby. With all these amenities, planning a full evening out from dinner to drinks is easy – The Stunned Mullet sits right in the middle of it all.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Stunned Mullet stands out as a local “hidden gem” with character. First, its quirky name is memorable – a mullet is a fish, and the tongue-in-cheek “stunned mullet” logo is a conversation piece. Inside, one sees decorations that nod to fishing and rural Kiwi culture, lending the pub a fun identity (fish images, classic Kiwi memes, etc.). Architecturally it’s not a grand building, but it has a lived-in character: worn wood bar top, posters of Flying Nun bands on the wall, and even the old-style green pub tiles. This gives it a throwback, pub-grunge charm that many visitors prefer over sleek modern venues. In addition, it has become a cultural hub for local musicians. Many Palmerston North bands and DJs say it’s practically a rite of passage to play a set here – it’s where the community of amateur and indie musicians thrives. Alumni stories mention decades of gigs, from school bands in the 90s to today’s hipster electronica nights, all on this unassuming little stage.
Another special point: The Stunned Mullet feels very community-oriented. Regulars say the staff remember your name, and the crowd mixes students, young professionals, and even older folk who’ve been coming for years. The venue’s calendar often includes amateur nights or themed events (80s retro nights, reggae Wednesdays, even quiz nights), reinforcing that it’s as much a social club as a club venue. It’s also one of the few places in town with a bass-heavy sound where shuffling and pogoing are normal. In an era of polished corporate spaces, The Stunned Mullet retains an unpretentious rock ‘n’ roll heart – concrete floors, flickering neon, and sticky barstools. Locals love that: one travel write-up highlights “modern gaming machines” but also how “everyone appears to be reasonably happy” there (pokiesnearme.co.nz ), capturing the friendly, un-fussy mood.
Finally, its historic role in the city’s nightlife is noteworthy. The Square has changed a lot over the years, but The Stunned Mullet remains a constant for late night walks home. Generations of Palmerstonians count it among the venues where they danced through student years. Although it’s smaller than big city clubs, its influence rivals larger venues because it feels homegrown. In short, The Stunned Mullet is special because it’s “real” – a local dive bar that embraced live music and gaming, and became beloved for it. Whether you’re there for impromptu karaoke or a booked-out indie show, you’ll find character and a community vibe that larger, flashier venues don’t provide.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility : The Stunned Mullet is in a modernized building, so the main entrance on The Square is at street level (no steps) and should accommodate wheelchairs or prams. Inside, there is an accessible unisex restroom. If you have specific mobility needs, it’s best to call ahead, but generally the ground floor is flat and open. (Note: The upstairs seating area is only reachable by stairs.) The Square’s sidewalks are curb-cut all around, and public transport stops are close by, which makes access easier.
What to Bring : Always bring valid photo ID (NZ driver’s licence, passport, etc.) if you plan to drink. You’ll need it any night you buy alcohol (law requires ID for anyone who looks under 25). For music events, earplugs are a good idea if you’re sensitive to loud sound, as the small space can get very loud near the speakers. Cash is handy for the gaming machines and possibly entry fee, though the bar accepts cards. Dress code is casual – you won’t need anything fancier than jeans or a dress/skirt. On colder nights, a light jacket should suffice, but note there’s no coat check so you’ll carry or hang items on your chair.
Common Mistakes : Don’t arrive too late on popular event nights; venues like this queue up and may reach capacity (as warned: “no ticket, no entry” if sold out (www.ticketfairy.com )). Also, double-check if an event is “all ages” or 18+ – many nights become 18+ after 10pm under NZ licensing law. Assuming free entry can backfire when a cover charge is posted; always check the event details in advance. One tip: Thursdays have a student night, so the line can start early if you want a good spot. On weekends, transport home can be scarce after midnight, so book your rideshare or taxi ahead (or find a friend who’s driving).
Ages and Rules : Typically, The Stunned Mullet enforces an 18+ drinking licence. Before 8pm or on special all-ages gigs you might see younger concert-goers, but after dark it’s strictly adult. The venue does allow smoking and vaping only in an outdoor designated area (as per NZ law) – so if you step outside for a cigarette, use the small smoking zone at the rear or side. Dogs or pets are not allowed (it’s not an outdoor beer garden). Cameras for personal use are fine, but professional photography of live gigs usually needs permission from the performer or venue. If you’re unsure about bringing any item, just ask the door staff.
Insider Tip : Locals often call ahead on busy nights to confirm shows, and they buy tickets online if available (or arrive early). If you plan a big night, get there by 9pm – especially on Friday or Saturday – to avoid a wait. The pub sometimes runs half-price happy hour deals on house beers around opening time (11am or 5pm), so it can be worth grabbing an early drink. Also, if you show up for morning events (yes, they even host late-afternoon comedy or quiz shows occasionally), you’ll get a coffee crowd in the day and a party crowd by evening. Lastly, if you’re coming from out of town, remember this is independence NZ-style: there’s no cloakroom, and cell service is your friend. As for tipping – it’s not expected in NZ bars, but a kind word and mug of beer go a long way to make the friendly staff beam.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the address of The Stunned Mullet?
The Stunned Mullet is at 1 The Square, Palmerston North , right in the city centre. It’s on the northern side of The Square, a short walk from the central bus interchange and surrounded by downtown shops and streets.
What is the capacity of The Stunned Mullet?
The Stunned Mullet is an intimate venue. It only holds a modest number of people – a 2019 event notice warned that “capacity is very limited” and tickets can sell out quickly (www.ticketfairy.com ). There is no official count listed publicly, but think on the order of 50-100 people. In practice it feels quite full with a few dozen on the floor and some seating.
Are there seats or is it all standing?
The Stunned Mullet is mostly a standing-room pub/club. It does have high tables and stools by the bar, and an upstairs area with some bench seating. However, for most shows it’s general admission standing. Early-arrivers can sit at tables, but once it’s busy the ground floor will mostly have people on their feet around the stage or dance area.
What are the opening hours?
According to public listings, The Stunned Mullet is open every day. Typical hours are roughly 11am–midnight on weekdays and into the early morning on weekends. For example, one listing shows Monday 11am–8pm, Tuesday–Wednesday 11am–midnight, and Thursday–Saturday 11am until 2am (pokiesnearme.co.nz ) (pokiesnearme.co.nz ). (On Sunday it closes earlier around 8pm.) Note that door closing times and “last call” may be earlier than stated show times due to licensing, especially on early nights.
How do I buy tickets for shows?
There’s no dedicated box office, so tickets are handled like a club gig. Smaller events may have free entry or pay-at-door. Larger shows usually use online presales (through promoter or event listing sites) as well as a small number of tickets at door. Watch local listings or the venue’s social media: they will say “Presale $X” if available. In one case a late-night DJ show had presales at $9 and a $10 door price (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you can’t buy in advance, aim to arrive early on show nights and pay the door charge in cash or card. There is no ticketing counter inside.
Is there assigned seating or a VIP area?
No. The Stunned Mullet does not have reserved seating or a private VIP section. It’s a casual pub layout. All tickets (when sold) are general admission on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no separation by ticket type once inside. Basically “whoever gets there first gets the spot”. There are no skyboxes or tables you pay extra for.
What is the dress code?
The atmosphere is super casual. Most people wear street clothes: jeans, t-shirts, hoodies, boots or sneakers. Some clubgoers might dress up a bit more at night, but there’s no strict dress code. It’s not a suit-and-tie crowd. Just be dressed comfortably for a night out drinking and dancing. (Pro tip: avoid very expensive or delicate outfits since bars with active dancing can get spilt-drink messy.)
Is The Stunned Mullet wheelchair-accessible?
The main entrance to The Stunned Mullet is at street level on The Square, which is flat and step-free. This means a wheelchair or pram can enter directly from the sidewalk. Inside, the ground floor is spacious enough to navigate (aside from tight areas around tables). The venue also provides an accessible unisex bathroom stall. However, the stage and upstairs seating are not wheelchair accessible (they require stairs to reach). If full accessibility is needed, it’s best to call ahead. Overall, for a downtown pub it meets basic NZ standards.
What kind of sound and lighting can I expect?
The sound system is set up mainly for DJ sets and live bands. It’s powerful enough to fill the small room with bass and clarity. Expect loud drum’n’bass or hip-hop thumping – if you stand near the speakers you’ll feel it. Lighting is typical club style: coloured stage lights and strobes or LEDs around the ceiling and bar area. It’s not a high-tech theatre rig but more than your average pub. For shows, look for info like “sick DJs” (as one promoter put it (www.ticketfairy.com )) – they do bring professional equipment for events. If you’re sensitive to volume, consider earplugs.
Can I bring my own snacks or drink?
No. The Stunned Mullet is a licensed bar, so outside food or drink is not allowed. You should purchase all beverages from the pub (they have a full bar and some snacks). It’s against regulations to bring in your own alcohol. Water or non-alcoholic drinks are sold at the bar too if you need a break from booze, and glass bottles are not allowed on the dance floor. If you’re hungry, eat beforehand or grab a takeaway next door and store it at a table.\u00a0
Are there age restrictions?
Yes. After 8pm The Stunned Mullet operates as an 18+ venue (as per NZ liquor laws). Early-evening gigs or special occasions might be all-ages, but any sign stating “18+ after 8pm” should be taken seriously. If you are under 18, you’ll likely only be able to enter before 8pm or if the event is advertised as open to minors. Always carry valid photo ID to prove your age. If unsure about a particular event’s age policy, check with the promoter or venue beforehand.
Is smoking allowed inside?
No, indoor smoking is banned by law in all New Zealand bars. The Stunned Mullet has a designated outdoor smoking area (usually a small area just outside the main door) where you can smoke or vape. If you need a cigarette break, step outside to that zone. E-cigarettes and vaping devices are treated similarly. Do not smoke indoors or stand too close to the entrance – you may be asked to move.
Is there parking nearby and how much does it cost?
Yes, there is parking available around The Square. Street parking is metered ($2.50 per hour Monday–Friday, with shorter hours on Saturday) (www.pncc.govt.nz ). Council-run carparks near The Square charge about $1 per hour or a flat $5 all-day rate (www.pncc.govt.nz ) (for example, the Fitzgerald car park and the Square multi-storey). Remember that paid hours are in effect roughly 8:30am–5:30pm on weekdays and 11am–3pm on Saturdays; outside those hours and on Sundays parking is free (www.pncc.govt.nz ) (www.pncc.govt.nz ). So for an evening show you can often park on-street without fee. If using a carpark, pick one like “Fitz” on Ferguson St or the Broadway Ave deck, then walk 1-3 blocks to the venue. Always follow the posted signs.
What public transport serves The Stunned Mullet?
Public buses are very convenient. The city bus shuttle network all converges near The Square, so you can catch a bus from any suburb and ride to the Palmy Bus Exchange (Church/Vivian St). The main stop is literally beside The Square, and then you’re steps away from the pub. Outside of local buses, InterCity (long-distance coach) also stops at The Square next to the i-SITE office (www.intercity.co.nz ). This means if you’re coming from another town, your bus likely drops you off right by the pub. Check the timetables, but usually there are services from Wellington, Auckland, Hastings, etc. Once at The Square, it’s only a short walk to number 1 The Square. For the late night return, taxis are plentiful around the Square, or you can book an Uber (just tell them “The Square, Palmerston North” for the exact pickup spot).
Does The Stunned Mullet serve food?
The Stunned Mullet is primarily a bar, not a restaurant. There is no full kitchen, but bar staff typically sell snack items – things like crisps, nuts, or hot finger food (e.g. chicken wings) when the kitchen closes. For a full meal, plan to eat elsewhere (see nearby amenities). If you’re hungry during your visit, the bartenders might recommend ordering pizza or chicken on delivery apps, or stepping out to a nearby cafe between sets. So, get your food before you arrive for a big show, or eat after the gig at one of the nearby open late eateries.
What time should I arrive for a popular show?
For high-demand shows (big bands or DJs), arrive at least 30–60 minutes early. The Stunned Mullet can fill up fast, and lines can form outside. If a show is listed as 9pm start, fans might start lining up around 8pm. Getting there early also helps with parking and ordering drinks pre-show. If an event is advertised in advance, it’s safest to treat the door time like a concert start time rather than casual pub opening. Keep an eye on the door policy too: some nights let a few in before the main start, others strictly wait until all guests arrive.
Is there Wi-Fi or phone reception inside?
The Stunned Mullet does not advertise free Wi-Fi. Mobile phone coverage inside is generally good as long as you have service in Palmerston North – most NZ carriers work well downtown. If you need data for ordering rides or checking maps, plan on using your own 4G. Feel free to step outside for a burst of signal if you need it (though the door can be a bit busy late at night). There is a coin-operated ATM on-site for cash, which can save a trip if you need money for drinks or parking (wanderlog.com ).
Can I buy drink tokens or a voucher as a gift?
There’s no formal voucher program, but you could buy drinks at the bar for friends or simply treat them to a night out by buying a round. For a larger occasion, sometimes venues allow sponsors to cover tabs. In any case, direct gift tokens aren’t available. The best “gift” is just to host someone by paying for their drinks or entry at the door.
