About 9 Bow St
9 Bow Street sits in the heart of Raglan’s main thoroughfare on the Waikato coast. This mixed-use building has long been part of the vibrant Bow Street precinct of shops and cafes near the harbour. One notable tenant is Gag Raglan , a surf and street-wear shop, which lists its address as 9 Bow St (bdir.in ). The building has also housed community services; for many years it was associated with the local library before the Council moved the library into a larger renovated space at 7 Bow St in 2014 (www.raglan23.co.nz ). Today the address encompasses retail and community activities that reflect Raglan’s laid-back, surf-town character and creative scene.
Though 9 Bow St itself is not a single-purpose theatre, it is closely linked to Raglan’s arts community. The Raglan Community Arts Council runs programs at nearby venues and a new “Creative Space” behind the historic Old School Arts Centre. This status makes 9 Bow St notable as part of the cluster of creative and community facilities in Raglan’s town centre.
Events and Programming
As a mixed-use site, 9 Bow St does not have a fixed regular slate of performances like a concert hall. Instead, the address is often associated with pop-up events and community activities. For example, local art showcases, book launches, and on occasion intimate acoustic gigs or stand-up comedy nights have been hosted by nearby shops or the creative community around Bow Street. The Raglan Arts Council runs the adjacent Old School Arts Centre and a newly opened “Creative Space” with a large community room. That Creative Space’s community room has a theatre-workshop setup that is “suitable for drama and music classes and performances” (www.raglanartscentre.co.nz ), and many local theatre and music workshops take place there.
Local music and arts: Raglan is known for live music and film nights, often organized by the Arts Council at nearby venues. For example, the Old School Arts Centre often hosts concerts and movie screenings (with a 2K digital projector and Dolby 5.1 surround sound (www.raglanartscentre.co.nz )) and these events draw visitors from Bow Street and beyond. Community classes: The building is near yoga and dance studios (such as The Space Raglan at 9a Bow St) and these studios offer daily classes and occasional workshops in yoga, pilates, etc. Seasonal community courses (e.g. ceramic classes, tai chi or children’s drama programs) are typically listed through local arts calendars. Surf culture events: Raglan’s surf shops sometimes sponsor outdoor film nights or surfboard art shows on Bow Street. While these aren’t held inside 9 Bow St itself, they form part of the Bow Street event vibe that visitors encounter around the address. Markets and festivals: Raglan hosts monthly twilight markets and an annual arts festival. When these are on, Bow Street (including near 9 Bow St) may see pop-up stalls, street performers, and live music scattered along the strip.
Tickets and Booking
There is no single box-office at 9 Bow St, since the location serves multiple businesses rather than being an owned theatre. For any ticketed events connected to this address (for instance, a special arts event in the creative community space), tickets are typically sold through the local arts center or via community event listings. Many Raglan events use SolTix or Eventfinda online, or sell tickets at the Old School Arts Centre office (5 Stewart St). For un-ticketed classes (like yoga or art workshops), simply show up or register through the organizer’s website.
At 9 Bow St itself, if a shop or café holds a special event (e.g. a book launch at Gag Raglan), tickets or RSVPs may be free or handled in-person. Generally, live music nights or comedy shows are billed through nearby venues (like the Raglan Club on Bow St), so ticket strategies follow those venues’ practices (advance online sales and door sales at the venue). In short, visitors should check the specific event listing – if it’s advertised at 9 Bow St, look for notes on the flyer or local ticketing sites. Many community events allow door sales 15–30 minutes before showtime, which is common practice for Raglan arts events.
Seating and Layout
The interior layout of 9 Bow St is divided among its tenants and uses. There is no fixed theatre seating: spaces are generally open-plan or retail-configured. For example, the ground floor includes the retail shop front (e.g. Gag Raglan) and possibly a reception or studio, while an upper floor is used for yoga classes or creative workshops. If you visit for an event or class, seating will depend on the format – often folding chairs or floor seating are arranged by the organizers.
Visitors attending a yoga or pilates class in the upstairs studio should bring their own mat; those areas are carpeted for comfort. If a live performance is happening (for instance an acoustic concert in a gallery section), seats may be set up facing a small stage or open floor. There are no fixed VIP boxes or balconies. Acoustics inside are typical of small venues – intimate but sometimes a bit echoey when empty. For the most part, any performance space at 9 Bow Street will be a general admission area where arriving early guarantees access to a good front-center spot.
Areas to avoid: In mixed commercial buildings, avoid blocking retail aisles or teaching spaces. The upper floor requires climbing stairs (though they are being upgraded for accessibility). As with any multi-tenant building, be mindful of separating event activities from the shop/work areas.
Getting There and Parking
9 Bow Street is located in downtown Raglan (postal code 3225). The closest intersection is Bow St and Bankart St. The street is part of Raglan’s main Bow St district, a few blocks south of the Raglan i-SITE and opposite the harbour-facing shops.
By car: Drive into Raglan on State Highway 23 and follow signs for “Town” or “Raglan Wharf”. Bow Street runs through the centre. Free street parking is available along Bow St in some areas (often limited to 30–60 minutes) and on adjacent streets. There is also a paid public parking lot by the Raglan Wharf (just a 3–5 minute walk from 9 Bow St).Parking costs: In-town parking is mostly free for short stays, with some metered spots (check signs when you park). The Wharf carpark is usually free but can fill up on busy days. Rideshare drop-off is easy on Bow Street by the shops.Public transport: Bus route 23 (the “Raglan-Manu Bay” service) runs between Raglan and Hamilton daily (www.busit.co.nz ). The bus stops near the Transport Centre in downtown Raglan (about a 5–10 minute walk from 9 Bow St). Look for the stop at the corner of Bow St and Wainui Rd. There are regular weekday services and a limited weekend schedule. (www.busit.co.nz )By bicycle or on foot: Raglan is very walkable. From the bus stop you simply walk west along Bow Street. Bike racks are usually available on Bow St; note that one ramp was temporarily relocated during the 2014 library renovation (www.raglan23.co.nz ).
Inside the Venue
Upon entering 9 Bow St, expect a casual, beach-town atmosphere. If you arrive early, you might find a few people chatting or sipping coffee at a nearby café before events. The ground floor is divided among shops and possibly a reception area. Upstairs might host studio classes or meeting spaces.
Entry and security: There is no formal ticket checkpoint; many events are free or casual. If there is a ticketed show, there may be a volunteer or staff with a guest list by the door. Bags are not usually checked, but common sense applies (no large backpacks at performances). Photography policies vary: many community gigs are informal, but for professional concerts check if cameras are allowed.
Food and drink: 9 Bow St itself does not sell food or alcohol. However, there are several cafés, juice bars, and bottle stores on Bow Street within a few minutes’ walk. Feel free to bring a bottle of water or soft drink, but alcoholic drinks should be consumed at licensed venues. If attending a late-night show, note that Raglan Town laws permit alcohol consumption in bars, but Bow St shops generally close by early evening.
Restrooms and facilities: There may be a restroom for customer use if it’s part of the studio or shop you’re visiting. Otherwise, public toilets are a short walk away (for example, at the wharf or at adjacent shops). There is no formal coat check, so keep personal items with you.
Connectivity: Free public Wi-Fi is not guaranteed at this location. If you need internet, a local café’s Wi-Fi can often be used. Phone coverage in Raglan is good on major NZ networks, and there are cell towers nearby.
Merchandise: If the event is a local band or art show, there may be a small table selling CDs or crafts just outside the performance area. Otherwise, look for merchandise at the organizer’s website beforehand. Gag Raglan and other Bow St shops do sell gear (like surfwear or apparel) during normal business hours.
Nearby Amenities
Planning on food or drinks? Raglan’s Bow Street is lined with cafes and eateries. Within a block of 9 Bow St you’ll find:
Cafés: Under the Radar, Raglan Roast, and Acai Brothers are popular for coffee, smoothies, and light meals.Restaurants/Bars: Just up the street is The Wharf Kitchen (with harbour views) and Pabrik (modern bistro). The Raglan Club (22 Bow St) and Solscape Cafe on Wainui Rd offer pub fare and live music.Grocery/Convenience: The local Four Square supermarket is one block up Bow St (great for snacks or bottles of wine). A few corner dairies and bottle shops stock basics.Accommodation: If staying overnight, Bow Street Apartments and local B&Bs are steps away. Few hotels near Raglan; most visitors rent motels or holiday homes.Information i-Site: Raglan’s official tourism info centre (an i-SITE) is at 7 Bow Street. They close in the evening, so if you need brochures or advice, plan ahead.Late-night transport: Raglan is small – local taxis or Uber can be requested, but services are limited. Make sure to arrange a ride if you’ll be out past 10pm. Some buses to Hamilton run late evenings.
What Makes This Venue Special
9 Bow Street isn’t a glitzy arena, but it is uniquely Raglan. It embodies the town’s surf-culture vibe and community spirit. You feel the “old Raglan” the moment you arrive: a heritage street lined with palm trees, vintage storefronts, and the sound of distant waves. The building itself is modest, but its importance comes from context:
Historic location: Bow Street is Raglan’s original main street (dating to the 19th century). Around it you see historic facades and the old Town Hall (now an arts centre) at 41 Bow St. While 9 Bow St’s current tenants are modern, they occupy a piece of that history. The address has changed functions over time (from council offices and library to shops and studios), reflecting Raglan’s evolution.Surf and creativity: Raglan is famed for its surf breaks and bohemian arts scene. 9 Bow St hosts businesses (like Gag Raglan and yoga studios) that attract both surfers and artists into town. From here you can literally walk to Raglan’s world-famous surf breaks or bike to nearby art trails.Community hub: Concerts and fairs spill onto Bow Street; a summer street party on Bow St would rollout from venues like 9 Bow St through the sidewalk dining areas. Raglan locals often meet up here. It’s one of the places that locals recommend for a real Raglan experience, because it’s shared by surf shops, galleries, the local library and arts offices (just a block away). Famous visitors: Over the years, Raglan (and its Bow Street scene) has drawn New Zealand musicians and artists after touring beaches or hiking. It’s said that bands love Raglan’s energy and often play small gigs here. (For example, Raglan club nights have regularly featured top local acts – and 9 Bow St is just around the corner from those gigs.)Local lore: The address carries local memes – skateboarders remember the old bowl ramp once outside Bow Street; art students recall Corrina Ot’s workshops; and surfers talk about the “Bow Street Safe Spot” (a wetsuit shop that was once there). All give 9 Bow Street a neighborhood charm that no new building can replicate.
Visitor Tips and Information
Here are key things to know to make your visit to 9 Bow St or any Bow Street venue run smoothly:
Accessibility: The renovated upstairs space has compliant ramps and railings (www.raglanartscentre.co.nz ), so wheelchairs can reach the main hall. (Entrance may still have a small step – check on arrival or call ahead.)What to bring: If attending a class, bring any required equipment (e.g. yoga mat or camera). For performances, tickets (or a pre-show reservation email) is all you need. Dress casually – Raglan audiences usually come in jeans or shorts. A light jacket is wise if arriving by bus late, since estimates may require a walk home.Bag policies: Most events allow small bags, but large backpacks or bright-white DSLR cameras might be restricted. If in doubt, leave bulky gear in your car or locker. Concerts sometimes have security that will do a quick bag check.Age & ID: Many gigs are all-ages, but some 18+ events occur in Raglan’s pubs. If an event is alcohol-licensed, bring ID to enter, as strict NZ laws apply. Youth workshops and daytime classes have no age limits.Smoking: New Zealand bans smoking indoors in public venues. If you smoke, do so on the street outside (at least 4 metres from any entrance).COVID and health policies: (2023–25 note) New Zealand removed most strict lockdown rules, but some venues still encourage ill persons to stay home. Hand sanitizer may be available. Check local guidelines if uncertain.Unexpected closures: The nearby roadworks (Wainui Rd closure, etc.) can affect how you approach town (en.tripadvisor.com.hk ). Keep an eye on local news or social media for any last-minute changes. But typically, Bow St stays accessible even if diversions are in place.Networking: If you’re new to Raglan, visitors often find the community is very welcoming. Don’t hesitate to ask neighbours or shop staff about any last-minute info – it’s a small town with big heart.
What is the capacity of 9 Bow Street?
9 Bow Street isn’t a large auditorium – it’s a multi-room community building. The main upstairs space (Creative Space hall) seats roughly 30–50 people in a classroom or cinema layout, and can hold perhaps 80 standing at most. There is no fixed seating, so capacity varies by event setup. In practice, events keep it intimate (often under 100 people total).
How do I buy tickets for an event held at 9 Bow St?
Ticketing usually depends on the organizer. For arts events, tickets are often sold online (on Eventfinda, etc.) or at box offices like the Raglan Old School Arts Centre. There is no dedicated ticket office at 9 Bow St. For pop-up events or shop-hosted activities, tickets may be available at the door or through website links given in the event listing. In short, follow instructions on the flyer or website – sometimes door sales are offered 15 minutes before showtime if not sold out.
Where can I find parking near 9 Bow Street?
Parking is available along Bow Street (metered and free short-term spots) and on Bankart Street nearby. There’s also a large public lot at the Raglan Wharf (Ocean View Parade), just a 2–3 minute walk. Most short visits in town are free of charge (check nearby parking signs). If you need longer term parking, ask a local café – some allow all-day parking for customers.
Is 9 Bow Street wheelchair accessible?
The renovated building has made major improvements. The creative hall upstairs now has stairs and ramps that meet accessibility standards (www.raglanartscentre.co.nz ). There is an accessible route to the main event space, although you may have to use a ramp around the back. Once inside, most areas are on one level with wide doorways. If in doubt, call ahead – venue staff are helpful for arranging wheelchair placement.
What public transport connects to 9 Bow Street?
The main public transit is WaikatoBus route 23, which runs between Hamilton and Raglan daily (www.busit.co.nz ). It stops in central Raglan near Bow Street (the Transport Centre). From there walk a few minutes southwest along Bow Street to number 9. There are no trains, and buses beyond route 23 are infrequent. Taxis and shuttles can drop you off on Bow Street if needed.
Are there places to eat or drink inside 9 Bow Street?
9 Bow Street itself does not have its own bar or café. However, it is surrounded by options. Inside, there may be water dispensers or coffee corners depending on who’s renting the space. For real dining, step out onto Bow Street: there are multiple cafés next door. Many visitors plan to grab coffee or a meal at a café just before or after their visit rather than rely on amenities inside.
What are the typical ticket prices for events at 9 Bow St?
Since 9 Bow Street hosts a variety of events, prices vary widely. Small community workshops may be free or $5–$10. Professional concerts or film nights run by the Arts Centre are in the $15–$30 range typically. Always check the specific event listing. Note that Raglan often values accessible pricing, so even larger shows try to keep tickets affordable (often $20–$25) (www.raglanartscentre.co.nz ).
What is the seating situation – general admission or reserved?
Most events at or around 9 Bow St are general admission. There are rarely assigned seats. Early arrival can secure a good spot if it’s a small concert or talk. Some workshops may offer chair seating, but often it’s floor space or movable chairs. Always arrive a few minutes early for the best choice of spot. For big community halls, organizers sometimes reserve front rows for elders or families.
Can I bring my kids to events at 9 Bow Street?
It depends on the event. Many daytime classes (like art or music for children) welcome kids. Evening concerts may be all-ages, but some 18+ events occur at licensed venues nearby. Check the age policy on the event poster. If children are allowed, there are usually cushions or low seating available. Bring ear protection for very young kids if it’s a loud gig, and keep them with you as space is limited.
What should I do if an event is sold out?
If an event shows “sold out,” you can try the door on the night: sometimes no-shows allow a few extra tickets. For larger fairs or markets on Bow St, there may be walk-in space even if tickets were limited. Alternatively, sign up for the Raglan Arts newsletter or follow local event pages to catch pre-sales for next shows. Buying tickets early is wise for popular events to avoid disappointment.
Is photography or video recording allowed during events?
Policies vary. For casual community events, snapping photos is usually fine (and welcomed on social media). For any professional concert or film screening, there will often be a no-phone or no-recording notice. Always heed the banner at the entrance or ask staff. Many artists don’t mind a few photos, but flash photography is typically forbidden. If in doubt, assume photography is not allowed during a performance.
What time should I arrive for an event?
Doors usually open 15–30 minutes before showtime. If seating is general admission, arriving at least 20 minutes early is safe to grab a seat. If it’s a workshop or class, show up a bit earlier to check in and settle your spot. The Arts Centre volunteers often open doors half an hour early (www.raglanartscentre.co.nz ). Plan extra time if you need to pick up tickets or buy snacks, since Bow Street shops close by early evening.
Is there a dress code for events?
Raglan is a relaxed beach town, so dress code is very casual. You’ll fit right in wearing jeans, shorts or board shorts and a tee. For winter evenings, a warm sweater or light jacket is good – venues can get chilly. Unless it’s a formal art gala (rare in Raglan), there’s no need for jackets or ties. Surf or skate wear at Gag Raglan nearby shows the local style is laid-back rather than formal.
Are there any hidden fees or extra charges?
Generally no. Ticket prices are the price you pay (most are flat rates). If you book online there might be a small transaction fee (like $1–$2). There is no mandatory service charge or drink minimum at events in this kind of venue. Just be sure to bring cash if it’s a private gig, because small venues sometimes are cash only to avoid card fees. Otherwise, budget for transport and parking if needed – those are the usual extras.
