About The World Bar
The World Bar is a long-established Queenstown pub and live music venue, nestled at 12 Church Street in the heart of town. First opened in 1996, it burned down in a notorious fire in 2013 and was later rebuilt with character. Today it serves as an après-ski hub and music spot with a quirky, laid-back vibe. It’s known for its cozy, in-house design, roaring outdoor fire pit, and sunny beer garden. Signature features include 11 rotating craft-beer taps, world-famous “teapot” cocktails served from a shared teapot, and hearty pub grub like gourmet burgers and nachos. The World Bar seats dozens indoors plus outdoor tables, and can handle larger groups by opening up its back “Shed” room and garden terrace. Its funky, memorabilia-filled décor and skate culture roots (it even hosts skate jams) give it local charm. Beloved by both locals and visiting backpackers, The World Bar feels like a warm hangout that’s deeply woven into Queenstown’s nightlife and history.
Events and Programming
The World Bar hosts live music, DJs and themed nights almost every week. During summer it frequently has afternoon and early-evening acoustic sets, while after dark local and touring DJs spin house, drum’n’bass, hip-hop and more. There are regular party nights (party classics, silent disco, club nights) most weekends. For example, you might find a quiz night every Tuesday or a silent disco on Wednesday, followed by an industry-themed evening on Thursday. Fridays and Saturdays often bring full DJ lineups or touring acts (in 2022–23 artists like HAAi, Benny L and CC: DISCO! have played). Sundays often wind down with live acoustic bands outdoors. The venue also hosts special events – Queenstown Mardi Gras warm-up parties, adventure-film premiers or charity skate fundraisers have been held here. Most nights have free entry, though big-name DJ shows or festivals may have tickets (typically NZ$20–30). Event calendars are updated on the bar’s website and social media; local ticket sites also list upcoming shows.
Tickets and Booking
Many regular events at The World Bar are open-barblic and entry is free or by informal guest list. For bigger gigs and DJ sets, tickets will usually go on sale a few weeks in advance through the venue’s own channels or local ticketing services. Box office windows are not typical; instead, you sign up or buy online. To get notified of hot shows, subscribe to The World Bar’s mailing list or follow their social media. Popular shows (especially on weekends) can sell out, so it helps to stay alert for presale announcements. If a ticketed event is sold out online, you can sometimes try last-minute door sales, but there’s no guarantee once the club is at capacity. Ticket prices vary by event; typical cover ranges from free for weekly resident nights up to around $25–30 for visiting DJs or themed parties. No two-tier pricing is common — mostly general admission only — but large group bookings (e.g., stag parties of 10–20+) can arrange semi-private areas via the function coordinator noted on the website.
Seating and Layout
The layout is casual and flexible. Inside the main bar there are bar stools, high tables, and a few booths around the edges. A central open area in front of the DJ stage is kept clear for dancing or mingling on gig nights. In the back, “The Shed” is a wood-paneled room decorated like an old garage or man-cave, with neon signs and vintage skate gear; it can host smaller parties (10–18 people) or overflow crowds with loose seating and benches. Out front, the sunny beer garden and covered patio offer bench seating and picnic tables; a roaring fire pit or outdoor heaters make it cozy even in cooler weather. Seating is mostly first-come, general admission – there are no reserved seats for regular events. For good sightlines at a show, standing or a high-seat near the front works best since the space is intimate. If you prefer quieter spots, edge booths or the bar counter are decent, though you’ll be farther from the party. Acoustically, inside areas can get lively and loud on big nights (the wooden walls give a lively echo), so ear plugs help if you’re sensitive. There’s no VIP VIP section; the stage and dancefloor are open to all patrons. Staff can recommend spots if you have mobility needs or want to be near friends on large nights.
Getting There and Parking
The World Bar sits in central Queenstown at 12 Church Street (corner of Church and Shotover Streets). From Queenstown’s main bus terminus (at Camp Street), it’s just a 5–10 minute walk up Church Street toward the lakefront. Queenstown Airport is about 8km away; the quickest way is a 15–20 minute drive or airport shuttle to central Queenstown. For cars, the closest parking is Church Street Car Park at 14 Church Street (just a block away) – casual parking starts around NZ$3.50 per hour. There’s also Bathhouse Lane parking near the lake-front (about 3–4 minutes’ walk north) and limited on-street metered parking nearby (fees enforced until 6pm on weekdays). Note: after 6pm on weeknights (and all day on public holidays), many council car parks in Queenstown become free, so nights out can avoid fees. Rideshares (Uber, Zoomy, etc.) and taxis are readily available; drop-offs can be on Church Street itself or at the Transport Garage on Camp Street. Queenstown’s local buses (Orbus routes 1, 4 and 5 in the “Connectabus” network) serve the CBD – buses stop near Church Street for connections from suburbs and the airport. Finally, if you’re staying downtown, The World Bar is within easy walking distance of most Queenstown hotels and hostels.
Inside the Venue
Expect a friendly, bohemian atmosphere as soon as you step in. The World Bar’s door staff usually check IDs (drinkers must be 18+) and do a quick bag search on busy nights. The décor mixes vintage skateboards, old signs and rustic woodwork; it feels like a homey lodge. The server/cru bar is the focal point, with taps and cocktail station. Food is served daily – think pub classics and fresh burgers, pizzas, wings and vegetarian options. Popular items often include thick beef burgers, loaded fries, and Asian-fusion tacos. The kitchen stays open into the late shift (often selling snacks well after drinks). Besides the famous teapot cocktails (multi-person mixed drinks served in a teensy metal teapot), the bar pours local craft beers on tap, NZ wines, spirits and nonalcoholic sodas. A note: Happy Hour specials (e.g. $5 pints or cocktails) usually run mid-afternoon (around 3–5pm). As you cope with New Zealand mountain evenings, the open fire in the beer garden is a popular gathering point. Restrooms are located inside and kept clean (they may be around the corner from the bar area); a changing table is usually available in the disabled toilet. There is no coat-check or cloakroom, so plan to keep personal items with you. Free Wi-Fi is typically not a focus (and isn’t widely advertised), but most people have cell signal with local providers. Outlets and charging stations are scarce – one viral tip is that benches and tables often have a power outlet nearby, so a long cable can juice up devices between games. Many visitors appreciate the laid-back Kiwi serving style: no need for formal wait service – you can order right at the counter or flag a bartender. Finally, the inside is largely ground floor with one shallow step up to part of The Shed at the back. Wheelchair access may be limited, so call ahead for help if needed.
Nearby Amenities
The World Bar is in a bustling block of Queenstown CBD. For pre- or post-show dining, you’re spoiled for choice. Next door is **Blue Kanu**, a popular Polynesian-Asian fusion restaurant (very buzzy); also on the block are **Tatsumi** (sushi/sashimi) and **Yonder** (modern vegetarian/vegan dishes). A few doors away you’ll find **Perky’s Floating Bar** (a unique barge-bar in the lake offering drinks and pizzas) and **Wicked Pizza**. The Queenstown waterfront is a 3-minute walk north – there you’ll see cafes like **Vudu Cafe** (all-day breakfast/brunch) and iconic burger spots like **Fergburger** or **Bespoke Kitchen** (for late-night food). Several hotels and hostels are within easy reach: adventure lodges at the end of Shotover Street, boutique hotels like **Hulbert House**, The Central Hotel (Naumi), and cozy B&Bs are a short stroll away. If your crew needs transportation after hours, the Queenstown Transport Centre on Earl Street (a 7-minute walk) has taxi ranks and Orbus connections. There aren’t many late-night restaurants on Church Street itself, so for food after the bar closes think about walking to Shotover or the nearby Stanley Street. For shopping respite, souvenir stores and ski gear shops line nearby Eaton and Shotover streets. In summary: arrive a bit early to dine at one of the many restaurants on Church or Shotover, and plan your ride home (taxis and Uber are plentiful around closing time).
What Makes This Venue Special
The World Bar stands out as Queenstown’s quintessential “friendly local bar” that also doubles as a stage and party playground. Its history of surviving the 2013 fire lends it an almost legendary status – when it reopened (in its new Church Street spot), locals rejoiced. Architecturally, it’s not a flashy modern club but an eclectic, in-house designed space full of character: weathered wooden floors, a giant indoor-outdoor fireplace, and walls crammed with quirky memorabilia (skate decks, vintage ads, neon signs). This DIY aesthetic makes it feel authentic and warm. The famous *teapot cocktails* (often a fruity rum punch served in a kettle) are unique – they’re often passed around for groups to share, capturing the venue’s communal spirit. Culturally, the bar has hosted countless local band launches, adventure film premieres (reflecting Queenstown’s outdoorsy vibe), and charity skate events, which means it sits at the crossroads of the ski, music and arts scenes. Over the years it’s drawn international travellers (backpackers spreading word its world-famous spot) as well as riding the wave with every Queenstown ski season. Many Kiwis say there’s “no better venue” for AFL Grand Final parties, Snow Sports award nights, or random DJs off the street. In short, artists love its heritage feel and lively crowd, and guests love it for its genuine, unpretentious atmosphere – it feels like the world’s best backyard bar.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The building is mostly at street level but does have one step in “The Shed”; wheelchair users should check with staff ahead of time. The bar itself has a designated accessible toilet. A good rule is to drop them a line before coming if you need help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the address of The World Bar in Queenstown?
The World Bar is located at *12 Church Street, Queenstown 9300, New Zealand*. It sits right in the central Queenstown CBD, just a few minutes’ walk from the lakefront and the main bus station on Camp Street.
How can I buy tickets for events at The World Bar?
Most regular nights at The World Bar have free entry. For ticketed concerts or DJ events, tickets usually go on sale via local ticket sellers (like Ticket Fairy or Eventfinda) or directly through announcements on The World Bar’s official channels. There’s no public box office, so it’s best to buy online ahead of time when available.
Do I need to book a table for The World Bar or can I just walk in?
You can usually just walk in – The World Bar operates on a first-come basis for most nights. Booking is only recommended if you have a large group (e.g. 20+ people) or are planning a private event. For ordinary visits or club nights, simply arrive early to find a seat, especially on weekends or busy evenings.
What are the operating hours of The World Bar?
The World Bar is generally open daily from around lunchtime straight through late night. On TripAdvisor it’s noted as “Open until 2:30 AM,” meaning the kitchen and bar stay open until the early hours. Typically breakfast-to-late-night service means doors open around noon and last call is after midnight. Check local listings or social media for any holiday-hour changes.
Is The World Bar wheelchair accessible?
The building has some steps and uneven areas (for instance, a raised floor in the back “Shed” area). There is one step at the entrance and a step into the back section. It’s best to contact The World Bar directly if you require disabled access; they have an accessible toilet on-site. Staff are generally very helpful in accommodating needs if they know ahead of time.
What is the seating like at The World Bar?
Seating is mainly open and communal. Inside there are high tables and bar stools, plus a few booths along the sides. The back “Shed” area has bench seating for small groups. Outside in the beer garden there are picnic tables and benches around a fireplace. Most events are general admission (standing or sitting anywhere you find space). If you want a seat, try arriving early—you can grab a front-row spot for shows or a table in the sun garden on a nice day.
Are there different price levels for tickets at The World Bar?
Generally, there are no multiple price tiers for shows; events are either free or have a single admission price. Most weekly events and local band nights are free entry. For bigger DJs or festival after-parties, the door price is usually a flat fee. On occasion a fundraiser might add a small donation at the door. Always check the specific event listing for any extra discounts or evening packages.
Do I need to arrive early for events at The World Bar?
Yes, if you want a good spot or a table, it’s wise to arrive early. Doors often open around 8–9pm for concerts, and already-popular nights can have lines. For casual pub visits or smaller events, coming after work (say 5–7pm) can avoid the crowd. If there’s a headliner or holiday event, lines can start well before showtime, so expect a wait.
Is there a dress code for The World Bar?
No formal dress code is enforced – casual wear is perfect. Many patrons wear hiking/ski gear or jeans and tees. In winter you’ll see ski jackets and boots; in summer shorts and sneakers are common. The bartenders may request covered shoes or shirts on occasion, but basically all casual outfits are fine. It’s more about comfort than fashion here.
Does The World Bar have a coat-check or lockers?
No, there is no formal coat-check or luggage storage. Coat racks or hooks near tables are available for jackets. For large bags or ski equipment, you might leave them along a wall or check with staff to see if there’s a safe spot. Always keep valuables on you, as public cloak services aren’t provided.
Is there a cancellation fee or refund policy for tickets?
Ticketing is handled by third-party providers or The World Bar’s event page. Refund policies vary by promoter. In general, free entry events don’t need tickets, so refunds aren’t applicable. Paid tickets are typically non-refundable, as is standard. If an event is cancelled altogether, the vendor usually issues refunds. For specifics, check the ticket provider’s terms or ask the venue in advance.
How much is parking near The World Bar?
Street parking in the CBD is metered (roughly NZ$1.50–$3 per hour depending on location and time), ending at 6pm. The closest off-street option is Church Street Car Park (14 Church Street), a Wilson Parking garage; casual rates start around NZ$3.50 per hour. After 6pm parking is free in most council lots and on-street spots. Taxis and rideshares are also convenient if you want to avoid parking.
Can I drink my own alcohol at The World Bar?
No, outside alcohol is not permitted. The World Bar is fully licensed, so all drinks must be purchased from their bar. They serve a wide selection of beers, wines and signature cocktails (including the famous “teapot” cocktails). BYO in any form would violate license laws.
Are children allowed in The World Bar?
Afterpub hours, The World Bar is primarily an adult venue (18+). If visiting earlier (before late-night parties), minors may be allowed in non-event hours if accompanied by a parent, but only in designated areas (check with staff on arrival). During events or after dark it is strictly 18+. Always carry ID for any underage guests, as it’s up to management.
Do they have vegetarian or vegan food options?
Yes. While The World Bar is known for burgers, its menu includes vegetarian-friendly items (like veggie burgers and nachos) and some vegan adaptations. The kitchen often has meat-free specials and salads. Check the menu or ask staff for vegan modifications (e.g., swap cheese or mayo). The focus is New Zealand pub fare, but they cater to dietary needs where possible.
What forms of payment are accepted at The World Bar?
The bar accepts major credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, etc.) and contactless payment (Apple Pay/Google Pay). It’s also wise to have some cash, especially for smaller purchases or stalls. For ticket payments, use the payment method required by the online ticket vendor.
Are cameras allowed at The World Bar?
Smartphones and casual photography are fine (many guests snap photos of the vibrant décor). Tripods or professional cameras might need permission. Flash photography could disturb performers or other guests. As a rule, no official photography verification is needed, but be courteous: avoid blocking views and check if bands have photo policies.
