Events at Loco Cantina, Queenstown

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About Loco Cantina

Loco Cantina was a vibrant Mexican-themed bar, restaurant and nightclub in central Queenstown (48 Shotover Street) known for its colourful Aztec décor and festive atmosphere (bignightout.net.nz) (restaurantguru.com). Located “centrally under Base Backpackers” on Shotover Street (bignightout.net.nz), it drew a mix of locals and backpackers (being the official bar of Nomads and Base hostels (wanderlog.com)). Guests could enjoy cheap tacos, nachos and local NZ beers by day and dance to live DJs and bands by night. Its signature features included sugar-skull mural artwork, Taco Tuesdays and tequila specials (bignightout.net.nz) (bignightout.net.nz). In its heyday, Loco Cantina was an important hub on Queenstown’s nightlife scene, hosting both international DJ acts and Kiwi bands. (Note: several travel sites now list Loco Cantina as “permanently closed,” so if you’re planning a visit, verify its current status (restaurantguru.com).)

Events and Programming

Loco Cantina hosted a lively mix of weekly club nights and special concerts. Electronic dance music nights (house, drum & bass, dubstep, reggae) were the norm: for example, it featured the international “Hospitality DNB” tour on 9 June 2016 with big-name DJs London Elektricity, Etherwood, Maduk and Danny Byrd (www.ticketfairy.com). Other stand-out events included a “SNOW & BEHOLD” festival night (Aug 2016) headlined by Australian duo Peking Duk, American rapper Rittz, UK drum&bass duo Loadstar and local act Summer Thieves (www.ticketfairy.com). Prominent reggae and rock bands also played Loco – Kiwi acts Katchafire performed multiple times (summer 2016–2019) (www.setlist.fm), and Sons of Zion appeared in 2017 (www.setlist.fm). One local guide even notes that world-class DJs like The Jillionaire (Major Lazer) and Shapeshifter graced Loco Cantina’s stage (wanderlog.com). The bar kept a packed schedule during busy seasons, often with events 3–5 nights a week. Apart from concerts, it ran popular regular nights: for instance “Tasty Taco Tuesdays” offered cheap Mexican food and drinks with music specials (bignightout.net.nz). Overall, Loco’s calendar was rich – from backpacker club parties and DJ sets to boutique concert shows. Ticket prices varied by event (cover charges often $10–$20 for smaller club nights, $20–$60 for headliner shows). Past listings on Songkick and Ticketing pages show many examples, such as an Alix Perez drum’n’bass concert on 24 October 2020 (www.songkick.com) or Ben Pearce/Kevin Saunderson in 2019 (www.songkick.com), illustrating its varied programming.

Tickets and Booking

Tickets for Loco Cantina events were typically sold through online ticketing services and promoters rather than at a local box office. Promoters often used platforms like TicketFairy or Eventfinda (see listings for past events). The venue’s contact info (address, phone +64 3-441 0344) and event pages appeared on Songkick and Facebook (www.songkick.com), so fans should watch those or local event listings for sales. Popular shows would sell out in advance (especially headline DJs and bands), so early booking was advised. General admission prices depended on the act; for example, one 2016 festival show had early-bird tickets at NZD $59 (www.ticketfairy.com). Door sales were sometimes available on the night (if not sold out), but there was no in-person box office, so plan to buy online in advance. Age restrictions (usually 18+) and event-specific rules often applied (see the FAQ below). Free or reduced-price tickets for locals or promos (student nights, guest lists) occasionally ran, but in general visitors paid full price. Always buy from official sellers and compare price tiers (advance vs door) before attending.

Seating and Layout

Loco Cantina was an intimate indoor space with mostly general admission standing areas. There was no fixed theatre-style seating or reserved benches – the floor in front of the stage/DJ booth was open for dancing and mingling. One event flyer described it as “rammed into an intimate indoor venue” (www.ticketfairy.com), which reflects that the floor became quite crowded for big shows. For concerts, the stage was at one end of the room and the bar along the opposite side or back. A few high tables or bar stools lined the walls, but most people stood. The “best” spot depends on preference: up-close at the front gives the loudest sound and full view of performers, while standing further back or to the side (near the door or tables) offers a bit more breathing room and a full view over the crowd. Loco had no balcony or separate VIP section. For sound, note that the club ran a powerful PA system geared for bass-heavy music – promoters even hired extra subwoofers for large drum’n’bass acts (www.ticketfairy.com) – so anywhere inside you’ll be fully immersed in the audio. Sightlines are generally good on the flat floor; the only minor blind spot might be directly beside any big speaker stacks.

Getting There and Parking

Loco Cantina’s address is 48 Shotover Street, in downtown Queenstown next to the main Beach Street Mall. In fact, it sits beneath the Base Backpackers hostel (bignightout.net.nz), just a block from the lakefront and Queenstown core. Since it’s right in the city centre, the venue is within easy walking distance from most CBD accommodations and attractions. Street parking on Shotover is very limited and tightly metered. Locals note that Queenstown’s CBD has famously scarce spaces, which has even been blamed for general business stress (crux.org.nz). We recommend pure pedestrian access: if driving, use one of the closest pay car parks (for example, the Queenstown Mall multi-storey on Beach Street or the Council-owned Lighthouse car park a few blocks north). These involve a short walk (5–10 min) to the venue. Always allow extra time in case of parking searches. During 2023–2024 the CBD is undergoing road reconstruction (www.nzherald.co.nz), so check for any street closures on Shotover or nearby that might affect travel. Public transport reaches the area (local Orbus buses stop on Beach Street – a 2-min walk away). For nightlife, rideshare apps or Queenstown taxis are reliable for drop-off/pickup (Uber itself is not allowed here, but NZ-approved apps like Zoomy or local cab companies can be used). In short: best is to walk if you’re staying downtown, or park a bit outside the core and stroll in.

Inside the Venue

Upon entry to Loco Cantina, patrons passed through a small foyer and descended a staircase to the main room (be aware there was no elevator access). ID and tickets were checked at the door (18+ age policy typically enforced (www.ticketfairy.com)). Once inside, the atmosphere was lively and crowded. The décor was unabashedly Mexican – colorful murals, Aztec patterns and Day-of-the-Dead sugar-skull art filled the walls (bignightout.net.nz). The lighting was classic nightclub style: rotating colored lights and strobes sweeping the dance floor. The bar served drinks year-round, so there was no shortage of beverages on hand. In fact, many reviews highlight the menu: they praised the mix of tacos, nachos and meat dishes (often calling the vision of perfectly cooked nachos and tacos a draw (restaurantguru.com)). One online write-up mentioned “perfectly cooked nacho chips, tacos and pork” on the menu (restaurantguru.com), and travellers noted an “energetic staff” creating a warm, cozy vibe (restaurantguru.com). During club nights, the bar did brisk business – tequila shots, pilsners, cocktails and the house brews were popular (the pub-crawl guide playfully warned of “splitting tequila hangovers” for spicy nights (bignightout.net.nz)). Amenities included restrooms (typically one men’s, one women’s) near the back wall. There was usually no formal cloakroom (patrons would hold coats themselves or check with staff if needed). Connectivity (WiFi) was not advertised, so assume cell reception might drop on the basement level. Overall, expect a tight but festive club interior where service is fast and tables are scarce.

Nearby Amenities

Queenstown’s city centre is packed with bars, restaurants and hotels, so Loco Cantina had plenty of amenities on its doorstep. Directly above House is the Base Backpackers hostel, and right next door at Shotover/Beach is Nomads Backpackers (Loco was officially the on-site bar for these hostels (wanderlog.com)). Other budget lodgings are within a few blocks (The Spire, YHA, Kiwi Holiday Park, etc). For pre-show dining, you’re spoilt for choice: on the same block or a block over you’ll find many eateries. In fact, other Mexican-friendly spots like Caribe Latin Kitchen and Margo’s are practically around the corner (restaurantguru.com). The nearby Beach Street mall offers everything from Thai and pizza to Japanese izakayas and gastropubs – for instance, the Atlas Beer Cafe (craft beer hall) and Wrights Brewpub are a short stroll away. For late-night drinks after Loco, top picks include The World Bar (filled with backpackers) or Searle Lane pubs (5 min walk) which host DJs. Nearby taxi ranks and bus stops (on Beach Street) make late returns easy. If arriving by car, the closest parking is on Beach Street. In summary, Loco Cantina stood in the heart of Queenstown’s bar-and-dining district, so visitors could easily combine a night at Loco with dinner out, other bars (or casino), or simply choose from numerous downtown hotels.

What Makes This Venue Special

Loco Cantina stood out for its bold Mexican fiesta vibe in the middle of Queenstown. Its unique decor – think bright Aztec and Día de los Muertos (sugar skull) murals – gave it a character unlike any other bar here (bignightout.net.nz). The programming was equally special: it regularly brought international and local talent to a town more known for scenery than nightlife. As one travel review noted, Loco was “the ultimate stop” for big acts and “funky sugar skull décor” that created an infectious buzz (bignightout.net.nz). Signature nights like Taco Tuesday (cheap tacos and tequila specials) became legendary among visitors (bignightout.net.nz). On the music side, drawing drum’n’bass events, reggae concerts and club DJs infused Queenstown’s scene with variety – Kiwis remember Katchafire, The Upbeats, Alix Perez, and others grace its tiny stage. Locally it served as both a meeting place for backpackers and a competitive live-music hall, bolstering the town’s cultural life. Economically, it supported many local staff, cooks and promoters, and helped extend the nightlife economy (keeping cafes and taxis busy late into the night). Beyond facts, Loco left a fun legacy: fans often reminisce about its grilled nachos, tequila shots, and dance-floor vibe. The venue’s closure (reported by late 2024 (restaurantguru.com)) was lamented by many, highlighting its once-cherished role in the community.

Visitor Tips and Information

Plan to arrive early on event nights. Doors usually opened around 8–9pm (for example, a 2016 DJ show was listed from 9pm (www.ticketfairy.com)). Busy nights fill up, so getting there by 10pm ensures you’re in before scenes peak. Remember Loco is generally 18+ (often strictly enforced) (www.ticketfairy.com) – carry a valid photo ID (NZ driver’s licence or passport) or you’ll be turned away. There was no coat-check by default, so try to travel light. Large bags or suitcases are discouraged due to limited space; a small daypack is fine. Dress casual but tidy – no heels needed (you’ll be dancing) and certainly no swimwear or ultra-sporty gear. Shoes are required (bare feet usually not allowed at any NZ bar). Smoking was allowed only outside: there was an external smoking area, so expect to step outside into the street for a cigarette. Inside, the music was very loud and bass-heavy, so ear protection can be a good idea if you’re sensitive. Bar-wise, the venue had a full menu of Mexican eats and a wide drink selection, but prices were as at any NZ bar: beers were typically $9–$12, cocktails around $12–$15, and shots $7–$10 (approx). If you’re hungry, grabbing tacos at Loco before a show is popular – in fact, their nachos or pork tacos could double as dinner (restaurantguru.com). Payment is by cash or card; card is widely accepted (NZ bars rarely run cash-only). Tipping isn’t expected in NZ, though appreciated for good service. The club had basic restroom facilities (clearly marked inside), but no private lounge or lockers. Connectivity (Wi-Fi) wasn’t advertised, so best assume none – your phone will rely on cell coverage inside. Outside the venue, mobile reception is decent around Shotover St. Finally, note any age restrictions for special events (some late-night student discounts, ladies’ nights, etc. may adjust age limits). The club had a friendly, laid-back crowd – often backpackers mixing with locals – so you’ll fit right in by being polite and ready to dance. Never forget to arrange your ride home: after the party, taxis and shuttle services are available (post-midnight buses are limited). If Loco is still open when you read this, double-check the latest info (hours, events) via their phone line or social media before heading out. And most of all, enjoy the lively atmosphere: this was one of Queenstown’s quirkiest and most energetic spots, perfect for a late-night fiesta.

What is the address of Loco Cantina?

Loco Cantina was located at 48 Shotover Street in central Queenstown (next to Base Backpackers). This puts it one block off the main Beach Street Mall. Note that recent reports indicate the venue is permanently closed, so double-check if you plan to go.

How do I buy tickets for events at Loco Cantina?

Tickets were usually sold online via official promoters (TicketFairy, Eventfinda, etc.) and not at a physical box office. Shows often appeared on Songkick or Facebook, which had links to ticket sales. For big shows (e.g. international DJs), buy early as events often sold out. If a show isn’t sold out, sometimes tickets might be available at the door, but don’t count on it.

How much do tickets usually cost at Loco Cantina?

Ticket prices varied by event. Club nights with local DJs might charge only NZD 10–20 cover, whereas headline shows (international electronic or band acts) were typically NZD 25–60. For example, a 2016 music fest at Loco listed early-bird tickets around $59 (www.ticketfairy.com). Always check the specific event listing for pricing. Weekly specials or free entry nights could also occur for smaller acts.

Is there assigned seating or is it general admission?

Loco Cantina was essentially a standing-room venue. There were no reserved seats; attendees stood or danced on the main floor in front of the stage. A few high tables or benches along the walls might be available, but mostly people stood. In short, it was general admission – first-come, first-served on the dance floor, so arriving early is key if you want to be up close.

How do I get to Loco Cantina, and is parking available?

Loco Cantina was centrally located on Shotover Street in Queenstown’s CBD (bignightout.net.nz) (www.songkick.com). Most visitors simply walk from the mall or nearby hotels. Street parking is very limited and metered, so not recommended. Instead, use nearby paid car parks (for instance, the Beach St multi-storey) and walk a few minutes. Queenstown is compact, so many people arrive on foot or by bus (the closest bus stops are on Beach Street). Due to CBD redevelopment (www.nzherald.co.nz), allow extra travel time. Late at night, taxis or rideshare (local apps like Zoomy or Queenstown taxis) are convenient for drop-off/pickup.

Is Loco Cantina wheelchair accessible?

Unfortunately, Loco Cantina’s layout (a basement club reached by stairs) was not very accessible for wheelchair users or anyone with mobility issues. No elevator or ramp was available. If you require accessibility features, it’s best to call ahead and ask if accommodations were possible (as of late 2024 it appears the venue closed (restaurantguru.com) anyway). In general, Queenstown’s older bars often have similar limitations.

What is the age limit for entry?

Loco Cantina was strictly 18+. All patrons needed to be 18 or over, with valid photo ID checked at the door (www.ticketfairy.com). No minors (even accompanied) were allowed by license. Typical IDs accepted in NZ were driver’s licenses or passports. If you’re under 18 or without ID, you will be refused entry.

Is there a dress code?

Loco Cantina had no formal dress code, but smart casual attire was expected. Many guests wore jeans, club tops, or dresses. Dressing very casually (flip-flops, sports shorts) might have been frowned on by security during big events. Certainly no hats or swimwear indoors – though the club’s vibe was generally relaxed. Shoes were required (no bare feet). In practice, come as you feel comfortable dancing!

Can I bring a backpack or large bag inside?

Large bags and suitcases were generally not allowed, both for safety and space reasons (Queenstown fire regulations are strict). Small daypacks or handbags were usually permitted. If you brought a larger pack (common for backpackers), security might have asked you to check it or not bring it in. It’s best to travel light – store big luggage at your hostel/hotel and bring only essentials.

What food and drink options are available?

Loco Cantina offered a full Mexican menu alongside its bar. You could order nachos, tacos, quesadillas, and other dishes (including vegetarian options) through much of the night (restaurantguru.com). This was convenient if you wanted dinner or a snack while clubbing. The bar served beer (NZ craft beers, lagers), wine, tequila shots and mixed drinks. Drink prices were typical for Queenstown (roughly $9–$12 for beer, $12–$15 for cocktails). Happy hour or drink specials sometimes coincided with events. The bar staff were friendly, and service was generally quick even on busy nights (customer reviews noted the “energetic staff” and “terrific service” (restaurantguru.com)).

Is there a coat check or lockers?

Loco Cantina was a relatively small bar-club, so it did not have a formal coat check or locker room. Guests usually managed their coats by keeping them on their person (especially if dancing) or leaving them draped on a chair. In some cases, staff might have stashed a jacket behind the bar. But no guaranteed service was provided. If visiting in winter, come packed lightly or wear easily removable layers.

Is smoking allowed inside?

Smoking was prohibited inside due to New Zealand’s indoor-smoking laws. However, Loco Cantina had a small outdoor area by the entrance for smokers. (It was just outside on Shotover Street.) If you smoked, expect to step outside between songs to use the quick smoke deck. Staff would remind you of this rule, as it was strictly enforced by regulation.

Are there age or drink restrictions for events?

Aside from the 18+ rule, standard New Zealand liquor laws applied. This means bar staff could refuse service to visibly intoxicated patrons and there was a last-drinks cut-off (typically 30 minutes before closing time, usually around 3:00am). Check the specific event restrictions (some were strictly over-21, others all 18+). No alcohol could be brought in or out. Always drink responsibly.

What are the nearest hotels or hostels?

Uniquely, Loco was part of Base Backpackers Queenstown – it was literally beneath Base’s building. Nomads Backpackers is next door, and both hostels often promoted Loco to their guests (wanderlog.com). Other nearby budget accommodations include The Spire, YHA Queenstown Central, and Aloft Hotel (all a few minutes’ walk). Hotels within two or three blocks include Novotel Queenstown Lakeside and Rydges Lakeland Resort. Essentially, it’s in the middle of the central hotel district.

Does Loco Cantina have Wi-Fi or phone charging stations?

Loco Cantina did not advertise public Wi-Fi or phone-charging stations. It was a typical club environment with phone reception generally remaining on cellular networks (good coverage on Shotover St). If you need to charge your phone, bring a charger or power pack. Assume internet access would rely on your mobile data.

Can I take photos or videos inside Loco Cantina?

Personal phone photos and videos were generally allowed (many guests snapped pictures of the decor and dance floor). There was no explicit ban on cameras, but professional photography (tripods, DSLRs) would have required management permission. Always be mindful of others when filming. As with most clubs, undercover security reserves the right to ask you to stop if something is disruptive.

Events at Loco Cantina, Queenstown

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