About Legends Sports Bar, Porirua
Legends Sports Bar is a lively, modern tavern-style pub in the heart of Porirua city centre. Located at 1 Serlby Place, Porirua 5022 (yellow.co.nz ) (in the redeveloped former Post Office building) (wellington.scoop.co.nz ), it bills itself as “party central” – famous for its live music stage and vibrant sports-bar atmosphere (legendssportsbar.nz ) (wanderlog.com ). The interior is spacious and industrial-chic: polished concrete floors, high black-painted ceilings with exposed ductwork, and column-free open space (www.realestate.co.nz ). The ground floor covers about 348 m² (with a 48 m² stockroom) (www.realestate.co.nz ), blurring the line between bar lounge and music venue. Signature features include a permanent stage for bands or DJs, a karaoke setup, big screens showing live sports, and a fully licensed gaming lounge with 18 “pokies” slot machines (legendssportsbar.nz ) (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). There are also two pool tables and multiple TVs for live sports (legendssportsbar.nz ). The venue regularly holds crowds of drinkers, music-lovers and sports fans (local teams like the Marlins soccer side often draw supporters) up to its 2 am closing time (poriruacity.govt.nz ). From architecture to its role on match days, Legends is an energetic hub – reflecting Porirua’s recent city-center revitalisation (it occupies the ground floor of the former NZ Post building turned mixed-use complex) (wellington.scoop.co.nz ).
Events and Programming
Legends offers a mix of live music, DJ sets, karaoke and pub events most weekends. Local bands and solo acts (rock, pop, reggae, etc.) regularly take the stage, and the bar is known for midweek and weekend nightlife (wanderlog.com ) (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). For example, the venue had booked veteran Aussie singer Renée Geyer for a July 2022 show (tickets were $50) (legendssportsbar.nz ). Theme nights (karaoke, ‘80s nights, etc.) and DJ parties are common, alongside live sports broadcasts. The bar’s large screens often show rugby, rugby league, netball and other matches – Saturdays feature a dedicated “sports hour” (for games around 1–4 pm) (scoop.com.au ). Happy hours on Friday (late afternoon) and Saturday evenings (7–9 pm cocktails) are a regular draw (scoop.com.au ). Crowds tend to peak on Friday and Saturday nights or during major sports events. Cover charges vary: some gigs are free or pay-what-you-like, while bigger shows can have a ticket fee (like Geyer’s concert at $50 online) (legendssportsbar.nz ).
Tickets and Booking
Most Legends events are informal pub nights, so many shows are free or have a small cover charge. For big concerts, tickets are sold online ahead of time. In past listings, the Renée Geyer show had $50 tickets sold only online (legendssportsbar.nz ). Legends typically announces ticketed events on its website or social media. There is no in-house box office – third-party booking sites (e.g. TryBooking) are used for bigger events (legendssportsbar.nz ). For smaller acts, entry is often “cash at the door” or included with drink purchase. To snag the best spots, arrive early, especially on popular nights. If a show sells out a venue of this size (only a few hundred people), there’s usually no waiting list – check online for availability of tickets or future dates.
Seating and Layout
Inside Legends, the main event space is an open-plan bar. A raised stage sits at one end, with room to stand and dance in front of it. There are high-top tables and stools around the perimeter, but most of the viewing area is general admission. For live music, the best spot is close to the stage; for sports fans, seating near the big screens or by the bar is ideal. A separate “bar lounge” (down a short corridor) houses the pool tables and gaming machines (legendssportsbar.nz ) (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). Because the floor is wide and column-free (www.realestate.co.nz ), sightlines are generally good. The acoustics are lively – think club or pub loudness – so sit up front if you want clearer sound. There are no VIP booths; the whole venue feels communal. Note that the speakers are usually near the stage, so if you prefer conversation, back off a bit or stand near the entrance.
Getting There and Parking
Legends’ address is 1 Serlby Place (yellow.co.nz ), a new pedestrian plaza in downtown Porirua (just across from Te Rauparaha Arena (www.theposthotel.co.nz )). If driving, there is ample parking. The Serlby Place complex has an on-site carpark right outside the entrance (www.colliers.co.nz ) (www.realestate.co.nz ). Our research notes “an abundance of on-site car parking” (www.realestate.co.nz ) and “carparking immediately at the front door” (www.colliers.co.nz ). Parking appears to be free for patrons (as with many NZ malls), but arriving early is wise on event nights. Street parking nearby is also usually available. For public transport, Porirua’s train station is a short walk (5–10 min) from Serlby Place – trains run on the Wellington–North Coast line. The city bus exchange (Porirua City Centre stop) is also a few blocks away. Once you get off, follow signs to North City Mall: Serlby Place is adjacent to it. Rideshare and taxis can drop you on the plaza itself.
Inside the Venue
Enter Legends at street level and you’ll find a high-energy pub setting. Staff typically greet guests at the door with ID checks for anyone who looks under 25. The decor is casual – sports posters and neon logos, plus some pub memorabilia on the walls. Music plays even when no band is on. The bar serves a full range of drinks – local and national beers on tap, bottles of wine, spirits, and cocktails (with about 10% off during the nightly cocktail happy hour) (scoop.com.au ). The food menu offers classic pub fare all day (legendssportsbar.nz ): fries, nachos, battered squid & chips, wedges, mac-n-cheese bites, and share platters. Food is fresh and well-priced (we found items like fries or nachos around $6–$10, and main plates $15–$18 (www.pokiescasino777.com )). During events the bartenders work fast – reviews note “the bartender was friendly and helpful” (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). If you want to save on drinks, plan to hit the happy hour times advertised (e.g. early Friday evenings). There is no formal coat check; larger bags can be stowed behind the bar or at your feet. Restrooms are in the back. Legends likely offers free Wi-Fi (common in pubs), though it may slow down on busy nights. As per NZ law, Legends is smoke-free indoors – any smokers should step outside.
Nearby Amenities
Legends sits amidst Porirua’s city centre amenities. For pre-show dining or post-show snacks, North City Shopping Centre (4 min walk across the road) has eateries and a supermarket (www.realestate.co.nz ). Popular nearby spots include the Porirua Club and Porirua RSA (both one block away) and other casual restaurants. Within a short walk (5 blocks) are takeaway joints, cafes, and a few fine-dining options. If you’re staying overnight, the newly opened Post Hotel occupies the upper floors of the Serlby Place building (www.theposthotel.co.nz ). Other Porirua hotels and motels lie within a few kilometers (a short drive or taxi ride). Late-night transport is generally good: Taxis queue at the city interchange (outside the station) and rideshares are plentiful.
What Makes This Venue Special
Legends is notable in the Wellington region for blending a big-city club energy with local heart. In architectural terms it’s new and bold – part of Porirua’s 2018 city-centre makeover (wellington.scoop.co.nz ) – with a gritty industrial interior that’s still polished. Its dual focus on both live music and club sports is rare in suburban pubs. Guests rave about the vibe: one Xia– visited an said it was “our local pub… a pretty chill vibe… there’s a stage for performing bands and karaoke… and always pool and slots for fun” (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). Another calls Legends “the quintessential local pub” for unwinding with friends or family (wanderlog.com ). The bar shines during big events – the Rugby World Cup, craft beer festivals or DJ nights – but is equally welcoming on average nights. Legends also stands out for value: generous happy hours and food deals keep patrons happy. Perhaps most of all, locals love that they have a true nightlife spot in Porirua (open late under its tavern licence) (poriruacity.govt.nz ). In sum, Legends matters culturally as a community hub where Kiwis can watch backyard rugby games one week and dance at rock gigs the next – all within city limits.
Visitor Tips and Information
Legends is very informal, so no fancy dress code – come as you are (jeans/t-shirt/sneakers is normal). Bring valid ID for alcohol. If attending live music, plan to arrive early (30–60 min before showtime) to secure a good spot, as the venue fills up quickly on event nights. Note that after 9pm Legends is adults-only (18+) since it’s fully licensed. No outside food or drink is allowed. Be prepared for noise – the bar gets loud when bands play. If you need quieter loggerheads, stand back from the Stage area or sit near the entrance. Check Legends’ social media or call ahead for current hours and schedules, as events and happy hours may change (especially post-COVID). When ordering, popular combos (Jug & snackage deals) can save money. Lastly, consider a quick visit to the adjacent Te Rauparaha Arena for a swim or sauna before an evening out – it’s right across the road (www.theposthotel.co.nz )!
What is the address of Legends Sports Bar?
Legends Sports Bar is at 1 Serlby Place, Porirua 5022 (yellow.co.nz ). This is in Porirua City Centre, near the intersection with North City Drive. It’s a covered plaza just across from Te Rauparaha Arena (www.theposthotel.co.nz ). Look for the large Legends sign on Serlby Place next to North City Mall.
What are the opening hours?
Legends is licensed to open daily from 8 am through 2 am (poriruacity.govt.nz ). In practice, they usually operate roughly 8:30 am–11:00 pm on Monday–Friday and Saturdays, extending later (until 2 am) on weekend nights for events. One local listing even showed Sunday closed (thefamilycompany.co.nz ), so Sunday hours may vary – it’s best to check by phone or online.
Is parking available?
Yes. The Serlby Place complex offers plenty of free parking. There are carpark spaces immediately in front of Legends (www.colliers.co.nz ) (www.realestate.co.nz ). In fact, real estate listings note “abundance of on-site car parking” (www.realestate.co.nz ). If that fills up, nearby North City Shopping Centre has large lots across the street (www.realestate.co.nz ). Street parking is also available on surrounding roads. Plan a few extra minutes to find and walk from a spot during busy nights.
How do I get there by public transport?
Legends is conveniently close to Porirua’s transit hubs. The Porirua train station (on the Wellington–Kapiti line) is only a 5–10 minute walk from Serlby Place. From the station, walk up Station Road and turn onto Serlby Place. Multiple local bus routes also serve Porirua City Centre (with stops near North City Mall, a block away). Once you’re near North City, follow signs to Serlby Place. Taxis and rideshare services can drop off at the plaza entrance.
Does Legends allow children?
Legends is primarily an adult venue. NZ law means children under 18 are typically not allowed after dark. During the daytime (especially weekends), older teens may be admitted with adults. After 9 pm (when it operates fully as a bar/tavern), Legends only allows 18+ patrons. Always check current policies with the bar if you plan on bringing minors in.
Is there wheelchair access?
Yes. Legends is on street level with step-free entry from Serlby Place. The large open floor-plan has no internal steps, and the restrooms are on the same level. The venue was built under modern accessibility standards, so wheelchairs and strollers can move through the main areas easily. If you need any assistance or a table re-arranged, staff are usually happy to help.
What is the dress code?
Legends is very casual. Jeans, t-shirts, boots or sneakers are all fine – dress for a relaxed pub environment. If you like, you can throw on a bit fancier attire for live bands, but no suit or gowns are needed. Just wear whatever you feel comfortable dancing or sitting in for a night out.
Are cover charges usually required?
It depends on the event. Many evenings at Legends are free entry (especially midweek or low-key gigs), with profits made on drinks. For special concerts or touring acts, there may be a small ticket price or cover charge. For example, a Renée Geyer show was listed at $50 (advance tickets only) (legendssportsbar.nz ). It’s best to check the event listing: small local bands often have no charge, whereas headline shows might.
How do I buy tickets for a concert?
For ticketed concerts, Legends uses online booking. When a show is announced, they post a link to the ticketing site (usually TryBooking) on their Facebook or website. You purchase through that link (seating/standing as specified). If tickets are still available, you might also buy at Legends’ bar in person before the event. If it’s a big local act, plan to book early – popular shows can sell out quickly.
Are flash photography and videos allowed?
Taking casual photos or short videos on your phone (with flash off) is usually fine. Legends is a friendly pub where people often snap their group or the band. Careful, though: recorders or professional cameras typically need permission. Avoid blocking aisles or shining bright flashes during performances. When in doubt, ask the staff or performers if you want to film extensively.
Is smoking permitted?
No, Legends is entirely smoke-free indoors. This follows New Zealand’s laws banning indoor smoking at pubs and bars. If you need to smoke, please use the outdoor areas adjacent to the plaza entry.
What food and drink options are there?
Legends serves a classic pub menu all day (legendssportsbar.nz ). Expect fries, wedges, nachos, squid & chips, seafood baskets, chicken bites, platters and burgers. Popular items are around $8–$15 (www.pokiescasino777.com ). There are vegetarian and gluten-free options too. For drinks, they have local and imported beers on tap, spirits, wine, and cocktails (with discounts during happy hour) (scoop.com.au ). If you have dietary concerns or want recommendations, just ask the bartender.
What kind of events are typically held at Legends?
Legends hosts a variety of events: live music gigs (local bands, cover groups, solo artists), DJ nights, open-mic/karaoke evenings, and sports-watching parties. Themed nights (80s, battle of the bands, etc.) are also common. Check their social media for weekly schedules. They rarely host theater-style or seated lectures; it’s mainly standing-room entertainment.
