About 36 Shotover St
36 Shotover Street in central Queenstown is the address of The London Underground Pizza Bar , a unique underground pub and live music venue. It occupies the basement of the Gerry Lynch Building (constructed in 2004 and redeveloped in the 2010s) and spreads roughly 400 square metres. With room for around 275 guests, this subterranean space combines a casual Italian-style pizza restaurant with a vibrant London-themed nightclub. Exposed brick walls, steel beams and large leather booths give it an industrial-chic vibe that sets it apart in Queenstown’s bar scene. It’s officially wheelchair accessible and even offers a special children’s menu during family-friendly hours, making it as welcoming to locals grabbing a quick bite in the arvo as it is to party-goers dancing late at night. In just a few years on the scene (it opened around 2015), 36 Shotover St has become a cornerstone of Queenstown’s nightlife, valued for its all-ages daytime chillout (kids eat for $10 on the lunch menu) and its bustling live music and DJ schedule after dark. The venue’s dual identity – pizza joint by day, pub-rock nightspot by night – makes it a favourite with both tourists and residents.
Events and Programming
36 Shotover St (The London) hosts events practically every weekend, and many weeknights in high season. Its calendar is packed with a variety of live entertainment: local bands, reggae and drum-n-bass DJ sets, salsa parties and themed club nights. Regular publicised events include guest DJs like Mungo’s Hi Fi, Document One, Jappa & Kleu and other international dance acts. The London also throws its own “Latino Nights” and pool-table tournaments. One of the most popular recurring events is the Kiwi-inspired pub crawl – Kiwi Crawl meets at The London at 9pm Friday and Saturday (www.kiwicrawl.co.nz ). That pub crawl alone features five bars, free treats and pizza, making 36 Shotover St the official start of many weekend crawls (cover charges of around NZ$30–40, see ticketing info below). On quieter evenings you might catch acoustic singer-songwriters or local rock groups. Concerts typically have a cover charge (often NZ$10–30 depending on the headliner), while many weekday DJ nights are either free or low-cost. Seasonal specials also pop up – for example, Kiwi Crawl’s big New Year’s Eve bash is the town’s largest party of the year, and Easter Saturday often features an earlier crawl and guest DJs. In short, The London (36 Shotover) stays busy with live music and parties most nights, offering a mix of drums and bass, reggae, hip-hop, Latin beats and rock, with ticket prices and event schedules announced in advance (via flyers or online) and sometimes available with early-bird discounts.
Tickets and Booking
There isn’t a traditional box office at 36 Shotover St – tickets for concerts and special nights are usually sold online or at the door. Promoters often list London events on local ticketing platforms and social media, and tickets can sell out in advance for big draws. Cover charges for club nights generally start around NZ$10–20 for local DJs or bands. Larger international acts or festival events can cost more, typically NZ$25–40 (for example, pub crawl events and headliner DJs). Free entry nights (or discounted entry before a certain time) do happen on quiet weeknights. For guaranteed entry to a popular show, it’s wise to buy tickets as soon as they’re advertised – check The London’s website or facebook page for event announcements. On show nights there may be a limited number of tickets available at the door subject to capacity, so arriving early (often before 9pm on concert nights or 10pm on club nights) is recommended. Group bookings or private functions are possible (The London can be booked exclusively for parties up to 275 people), so contact the venue by phone or email well in advance to reserve tables or arrange corporate events. For general admission concerts, tickets purchased online or through authorised agents can usually be scanned at the entrance. Keep in mind that age restrictions apply (18+ most late events) and some tickets may include a modest “booking fee” added on during purchase.
Seating and Layout
The London’s layout is split between a dining area and a bar/dance floor. Upon entry (down a flight of stairs from street level), you’ll find a mix of seating options. To one side are cosy leather booths and bistro tables where diners sit for pizza and drinks. The long wooden bar spans much of the centre, lined with high stools and drink rails. Towards the back or centre is a standing-dance area in front of the DJ booth or performance stage. The space is mostly open-plan, so even if you’re at a table you’ll see the action. Acoustically it’s lively, with a modern club sound system designed to pump house, drum’n’bass or reggae at high volume without too much echo. The best spots depend on what you want: if you’re there for dinner or conversation, a booth along the wall (away from the speakers) is ideal; if you’re there to dance, the open floor in front of the booth offers plenty of room. Some booths are reserved for VIPs or private events, but otherwise seating is general admission – first come, first served. There’s no strict “bad” seat, but do note the middle pillars and bars can be busy passages. For the full experience of the party, standing near the stage or bar is best; for watching a live band, the front floor ensures a great view. In-house lighting rigs and even a digital projector make this venue flexible for shows, and the mix of low tables, high tables and lounge areas means you can choose to sit, perch or stand. If sensitive to volume, ear protection is advised in the packed zones – the dance floor gets very loud during peak events.
Getting There and Parking
36 Shotover Street is very central – it sits one block off the lakefront on a corner that’s impossible to miss. If you’re driving, the nearest public car parks are a couple of minutes’ walk away: the Wilson parking building at 5 Shotover Street (entrance on Shotover or Stanley, roughly NZ$5–10 for two hours) is closest, and there are a few metered street spots on Shotover and adjacent blocks (coins or pay-by-phone). Note that street parking can be scarce on weekend nights, so allow time to search or jump to the paid lot. Rideshares and taxis are popular at closing time – drop-off stands are just down the road at Fergburger or outside the SkyCity Casino on Beach Street. Queenstown’s local bus service (Orbus) also serves the town centre: Routes 1, 4 and 5 stop along Beach Street or Camp Street, just a short walk from 36 Shotover (moovitapp.com ). If you’re coming from Queenstown Airport or the Frankton transport hub, some airport shuttle van services stop near town, and the free hotel shuttle buses (operated by certain hotels) often pass within a block of Shotover. If walking, the venue is only a 5-minute stroll from Steamer Wharf or Earnslaw building. There’s no train service; if using a bicycle, there is limited public bike rack parking outside. Accessibility-wise, there is a gently sloping footpath and entrance ramp into the building, and plenty of nearby pedestrian crossings (Shotover Street is safely lit and patrolled late into the night).
Inside the Venue
On entry you’ll descend to a cool, dimly-lit interior with a warm buzz. The atmosphere is energetic and friendly. Staff tend the bar at all times, and security do ID checks for age when required. The menu is in full view behind the bar – pizzas, flatbreads and sharing plates are produced from a kitchen right next to the dining area. These are NZ-style thin-crust pizzas with creative toppings (meat-lovers, vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free options are all available), and there’s a three-metre “Big Ben” novelty pizza for the very hungry. A kids’ menu (with $10 lunch pizzas and sides) is offered until early evening, so families often dine here before the night crowds arrive (www.tripadvisor.com ). The busy wooden bar is stocked with a wide range of New Zealand beers on tap (local craft IPAs, ales and lagers), plus wines and classic cocktails (gin & tonics, spritzes, etc.). The London also serves a rotating “beer of the week” or special cocktails tied to events. Service is relaxed but efficient – reviewers often praise the quick turnaround on food and friendly attitude of the staff. Free Wi-Fi is available for customers, and all major credit cards are accepted (including Amex) (www.tripadvisor.com ). Restrooms (including an accessible toilet) are down the hallway off to one side. There’s coat/kid stroller storage space at the back of the restaurant area, though no official cloakroom – valuables should be kept on you. Small TVs may show sports in the quieter hours, but during live music the sound system takes over and any screens count down tracks or display visuals. You’re welcome to take photos or short videos for social media (phones are fine), but professional camera equipment typically isn’t allowed. Outside in front is a designated smoking area for patrons, as smoking is banned indoors under NZ law. Overall, expect a casual but buzzing vibe: one reviewer even noted you can sip cocktails through the day or grab a table of friends at night and stay dancing until closing. The venue has a “no outside food/drink” rule (as is standard), but tap water is freely available. Just bring yourself, your ID, and get ready to relax with pizza or party – The London does the rest.
Nearby Amenities
36 Shotover Street sits in the heart of Queenstown’s dining and nightlife precinct. Next door is Fergburger – the famous burger joint where locals and tourists often queue half an hour for gourmet patties. Its sister café, Fergbaker , is just around the corner on Shotover/Driftwood Lane (excellent pastries and bread). A block away on Beach Street are pubs like Speight’s Ale House (New Zealand beer hall) and ATLAS Beer Café. The block beyond that is Steamer Wharf, where you can catch scenic boats and find waterfront eateries like PRINCE nằm (modern dining) and Patagonia Chocolates (ice creams). If you walk two blocks up Shotover, you’ll hit the Skyline Gondola base and park (great views, but parking is far). As for other nightlife, the top-floor The Sundeck (rooftop bar and kitchen) occupies the same building complex at Shotover & Stanley – it’s just upstairs and offers outdoor seating with lake views on warm summer nights. Within a 5–10 minute walk are dozens of hotels and lodges: Copthorne Lakefront, Millennium Queenstown, Novotel Lakeside, Crowne Plaza Queenstown, and Hilton Queenstown Resort are all in easy reach. Even closer is Rydges Lakeland Resort on smaller adjacent streets. Late-night snack options near 36 Shotover include The Cow (pizza and pasta), World Bar (American comfort food), and the ever-present “bottle shops” on Shotover (if you want to grab liquor before or after). If you need to know where to meet before a pub crawl or concert, the entrance of The London on Shotover Street is a common landmark. Plan to arrive early (30–60 minutes) if you want a meal at one of the nearby restaurants before doors open. After an evening out, transportation is straightforward: Queenstown Taxis and Uber cars circle the CBD, or you can walk to the Earnslaw building slipway (5 min) to hail a ride out to hotels or Frankton Airport shuttle stops.
What Makes This Venue Special
36 Shotover Street stands out for its unique character in Queenstown. Being the town’s only underground-style venue, it creates a “London Tube”-inspired partying experience far from anything else in the region. Its industrial design – polished concrete floors, exposed brick walls and vintage London posters – give a distinctive urban edge that contrasts with Queenstown’s alpine scenery. Historically, the building (the Gerry Lynch block) was purely offices, and The London’s opening in 2015 brought Queenstown a new kind of entertainment space. It quickly earned a reputation for legendary nights out: one local described every weekend as a big party. Its cultural impact is also seen in how it anchors the Kiwi Crawl pub-round – 36 Shotover St really helped shape the evening scene in Queenstown by starting travellers off with free pizza and tours of bars. Artists love the venue because the sound and lighting gear are top notch for a small city – local acts like The Stallions (a famous male revue) and international DJs know the London will draw a crowd. Audiences appreciate the combination of a relaxed eatery and a nightclub: you can get high-quality “number one pizza in Queenstown” during dinner and then seamlessly dance the night away. The London also built up local traditions, like weekly themes (live reggae on Wednesdays, salsa Thursdays), not to mention extra-large pizzas for New Year’s and game-day watch parties on big screens. Its place in the community goes beyond entertainment – by offering affordable, inclusive fun (kids eat cheap early on, tourists meet locals over Late Night sessions), the venue has become a social hub. In summary, 36 Shotover Street matters because it brought a European-style drinks and music culture to Queenstown in a fun, unpretentious package – a place that both tourists and Queenstowners say “feels like home but exciting”, and also where one reviews calls the bartender “a real asset” for making guests feel welcome.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The London at 36 Shotover is wheelchair accessible – there are ramps and an elevator to the basement level, and all areas (including restrooms) can be reached without stairs. ID: Bring a photo ID (NZ driver license or passport) if you plan to drink. Under 18s are welcome during dinner hours, but after about 8–9pm most nights the venue strictly enforces an 18+ entry policy. Dress code: There is no formal dress code, but casual, tidy attire is safest (party wear or neat casual). Flip-flops or activewear are fine earlier in the day, but if you’re dancing later on it’s best to wear comfortable closed shoes. What to bring: Dress in layers (nighttime can be cool), and consider earplugs for loud DJ sets. You can bring a small bag or purse, but large backpacks are discouraged – secure personal items as theft can happen in crowded bars. Food & Drink Policies: No outside food or drink is allowed inside; all consumables must be purchased on-site. These kitchens serve delicious pizzas and snacks, plus you can order non-alcoholic drinks or just water if needed. Wi-Fi & Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available (ask staff for the password), and cellphone reception is generally good underground. Common mistakes: Don’t wait until the last minute to arrive – if a show or night is popular, the door queue can get long. Plan your round-trip travel ahead (book an Uber or taxi before peak 10–11pm hours). Also, double-check whether an event is all-ages or 18+ before booking tickets, since some nights exclude minors. Peak times: Weekends (Friday and Saturday) see the biggest crowds, with doors often jam-packed by 10–11pm. If you prefer a quieter vibe, weeknights or early in the evening are much calmer. Tips: Grab dinner or a 2-for-1 pizza deal early (The London often runs drink+2-pizza specials) to save money. Keep an eye on local event pages – they sometimes advertise “VIP booths” (reserved tables with drinks) for an extra fee if you want priority seating. Finally, if you’re attending as a group, consider reserving a booth in advance to avoid waiting for seats. With these tips in mind, you’ll be all set to enjoy everything 36 Shotover Street has to offer – from its hearty Kirrawee-fire pizzas and craft beers to its legendary late-night atmosphere.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I buy tickets for a show at 36 Shotover Street?
Tickets are usually sold online through local event platforms or through The London’s website. For big events, buy early to secure a spot – popular shows often sell out. There is no physical box office, so you can also purchase at the door if tickets remain. It’s smart to check Facebook/Eventfinda listings and arrive before showtime in case of on-the-night availability.
What do tickets typically cost for concerts or club nights?
Cover charges vary by event. Smaller DJ or band nights usually range from NZ$10 to NZ$20 on the door. International acts and themed parties can be higher (~NZ$25–$40). Some weeknight events may be free entry. Special events like Kiwi Crawl pub crawls have separate pricing (around $30–$40 including perks). Always check the event details for exact pricing before planning.
Is there a box office or will-call for tickets?
No, 36 Shotover St does not have a traditional box office or will-call window. All ticket sales are handled online or by promoters. If you have pre-bought tickets, you typically scan them at the entrance on the night of the event. If you need to sort out tickets, it’s best to deal with the event organizer’s website or affiliated ticket service ahead of time.
Where is the nearest parking and how much does it cost?
The closest car park is at 5 Shotover Street (corner of Shotover & Stanley), managed by Wilson Park. Rates are about NZ$5–$10 for a couple of hours. There are also a few metered street parking spots on Shotover and nearby side streets (coin or card payment), but these fill up quickly on busy nights. If those are full, try the larger lots at Earl Street or Lakeview Street (a 5-10 minute walk away). Note that late-night parking can require a short walk back to your car.
What public transport options serve 36 Shotover Street?
Local bus routes (Orbus) 1, 4 and 5 stop near downtown on Beach or Athol Streets, both just a 3–5 minute walk from Shotover Street (moovitapp.com ). These run regularly between the Frankton bus hub (near the airport) and Queenstown centre. There is also a free hotel shuttle in town that might drop nearby. For late-night travel, consider a taxi or rideshare (Uber/Lyft operate in Queenstown) – drop-offs and pick-ups are very easy right outside the venue.
Is 36 Shotover Street wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The London has ramps and an elevator to the basement level, making it accessible. Once inside, the venue is mostly on one level. Accessible restrooms are available as well. If you have any specific needs (mobility or support animals), it’s a good idea to call ahead and the staff can assist.
How is the seating arranged, and which spots are the best?
Seating is a mix of booths, high tables and bar stools. The best seats depend on your purpose: if you want to eat and talk, the leather booths along the walls are comfy. For watching live music or dancing, the open area in front of the stage/DJ booth is ideal. There are no fixed seat numbers – it’s first-come seating on show nights. VIP tables (with bottle service) can be reserved for added comfort if you book ahead. Just note that behind-the-bar seats will have a livelier atmosphere (and a bit of noise) during concerts.
Are there VIP sections or reserved tables at The London?
Yes, for special events you can sometimes purchase a VIP package. This usually includes a reserved booth or table for your group, plus a complimentary drink and priority service (www.ticketfairy.com ). These VIP spots have the same view of the stage as the main floor but are in a slightly more private area. To get VIP seating, you generally need to pre-book through the event organiser or contact the venue. Otherwise, arriving early is the best way to get the booth or front-row space you want.
What is the capacity of 36 Shotover Street?
The London can accommodate up to about 275 guests comfortably (www.thelondon.co.nz ). This includes all seating and standing room. In practice, you’ll rarely see it completely packed to the fire-code limit, but many Friday/Saturday nights do reach several hundred people. Its 400 m² floor area allows for a spacious feeling even when full.
Is there an age restriction at 36 Shotover Street?
Yes, there are age rules. During dinner hours (roughly 4pm–8pm) everyone is welcome – it’s family-friendly and even has a kids’ menu. However, after dark (usually after 9pm), The London strictly enforces an 18+ policy due to its liquor licence. Any night with live DJs or bands will typically be 18+ only. Staff will check photo ID at the door on those nights.
Can I bring my own food or drinks into the venue?
No – outside food and drink are not permitted inside. All food and beverages must be purchased from The London. They offer a wide menu (pizzas, burgers, cocktails, etc.), and the rules are standard for bars/clubs. Water is always available for free. Briefly stepping out to smoke is fine (there’s an outside smoking area), but you can’t carry in any outside alcohol or snacks.
Are cameras or photography allowed at The London?
Personal cameras and phone photography are welcome (people often post pics online), as long as it’s polite. The management generally encourages social media sharing. However, professional camera gear (like DSLRs with big lenses) might require permission or media accreditation – it’s best to check with staff if unsure. Flash photography is usually okay during concerts, but always be considerate of performers and other guests.
Is there a coat check or locker room available?
No, there isn’t a formal coat check. However, there is space along the back wall or near the restrooms where patrons commonly leave jackets. It’s advisable to keep valuables with you. Many people either wear their light jackets or tuck them under their booth or chair. During winter months (June–Aug) the venue can feel warm, so most coats go under the tables.
What kind of food and drink does 36 Shotover Street serve?
The London is known for hearty pub fare. Their menu features scratch-made flatbread pizzas (including a famous 3-foot “Big Ben” pizza), sharing platters, burgers, and pub snacks. They also have a well-stocked bar: local craft beers on tap, a selection of New Zealand wines, international spirits and classic cocktails. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are available too. During happy hour or certain nights you’ll find combos and specials (for example, “buy one drink, get 2-for-1 pizzas” deals often run on slower evenings).
What time does 36 Shotover Street open and close?
The London is open from late afternoon through to after midnight. Typically the doors open at 4pm or 5pm (depending on the day), and they serve dinner until at least 10pm. After 10pm it transitions into a bar/club atmosphere. Closing time is usually around 1:30am or 2am (3am curfew after special licenses on weekends). Check the venue’s website or phone ahead, as hours can change for holidays or events.
Are there any dress code or behavior policies I should know?
There’s no strict dress code – Kiwi casual is fine (think jeans, shirts, summer dresses). Party attire and nice shoes are common on busy nights, and sports tops are okay too. The London expects polite behavior: no aggressive or lewd acts. Security will enforce standard rules (no fighting, no illicit substances, no weapons). Occasional karaoke or performances might encourage some flamboyant dress-ups. Remember this is still a licensed venue, so rowdy or intoxicated patrons may be refused entry or service for safety.
Is Wi-Fi available at 36 Shotover Street?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is provided for customers. You can ask the staff for the password, which is usually visible on a sign behind the bar. The connection speeds are decent for checking social media or browsing. Just note: during busy events the network might be a bit slow, so it’s best used for messaging or uploading photos rather than heavy streaming.
