About Raglan Club Inc
Raglan Club Inc is a long-standing community social club in Raglan, Waikato, located at 22 Bow Street (raglanclub.co.nz ). Housed in a modest single-storey building typical of Kiwi clubs, it offers bars, a dine-in restaurant, a gaming lounge, and recreational rooms in a family-friendly setting. Adults can enjoy the **Main Bar** and Resident’s Lounge as well as free snooker, pool and darts, while children are welcome in the fully-fenced **Garden Bar** and dining areas (raglancreatives.com ) (raglanclub.co.nz ). Membership is open to locals; annual full membership is just $40 (single) or $60 (couple) through the end of August (raglanclub.co.nz ), and even a short-term seasonal membership can be had for $10 (three months) (raglanclub.co.nz ). These memberships allow use of all club facilities (notice: seasonal memberships don’t include a card or entry to draws (raglanclub.co.nz )). The Club prides itself on a friendly “rugby club” vibe – a mix of retired locals, working families, and surfers, with indoor and outdoor spaces to suit all.
Founded in the 1950s, Raglan Club has been a community hub for over 60 years (it celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2006). Its history is reflected in photos and memorabilia around the walls. Over the decades it has hosted everything from quiz nights and raffle draws to sports tournaments and celebratory dinners – making it a local institution. Today it remains run by volunteer members under an elected committee (see their annual AGM reports online) and staffed by a small team of managers and bar staff. Notable features include the sheltered **front deck** (a veranda facing Bow St, often used for casual drinks in summer), the large **garden bar** area (lawnside patio with child-friendly games) (raglanclub.co.nz ), and a small function room section of the clubrooms. The entire venue is fully licensed for alcohol from 9am until late, and the owners emphasize it as family-friendly by day with the garden area geared to kids. (www.waikatodistrict.govt.nz ) (raglancreatives.com )
Events and Programming
Raglan Club is active with weekly and monthly events catering to music lovers, families and the club membership. A signature offering is live music – for example, country-rock star James Ray has held a Thursday-night residency since March 2022, playing country and rock hits alongside (and often during) a hearty steak special (raglanclub.co.nz ). In practice this usually means live music for three Thursday evenings each month. On the *fourth Thursday*, the club often hosts an **Open Mic** night where local singers and bands can perform (raglancreatives.com ). Beyond these resident acts, the club will occasionally bring in touring artists or local cover bands on weekends. Notably, the Raglan Country & Blues Festival (Oct 2024) used the Club’s front deck as one of its stages, featuring acts like young singer-songwriters Luna Petzold-de la Cruz and Valentine Kunzler on Saturday afternoons (www.raglanchronicle.co.nz ). Likewise, Kiwi country/rock acts or touring cover bands sometimes play ticketed gigs here. On major event nights the atmosphere is like a mini-concert hall: a portable stage is set up in the main bar area or on the outer deck so everyone can gather around.
Aside from music, weekly club fixtures keep the calendar busy. Most Wednesdays and Fridays see popular **club raffles** in the evening to fund the various activities: in fact, raffles (with prizes like meat packs from the local butcher) are a mainstay (raglanclub.co.nz ). Every Wednesday and Friday, members line up for the weekly meat raffles and the club’s special “Joker” draw, which can offer a large cash prize to the lucky card-holder (raglanclub.co.nz ) (raglanclub.co.nz ). Other steady events include **indoor sports**: members can join free snooker or eight-ball pool at almost any time, as there are tables next to the lounge (raglanclub.co.nz ); competitive snooker tournaments or darts competitions are held on alternate weekends. Wednesday and Saturday afternoons often see indoor bowls roll-ups. In short, the club program mixes live music, games, sports, and social nights. It also hosts occasional one-offs – from quiz nights to themed parties (for example, New Year’s Eve or sports finals screenings) – and members can hire the venue for private functions (such as birthdays or reunions). (Hire rates for events range roughly $150–$400 depending on scale (raglanclub.co.nz ).) With draws and community events every week, the club provides “something for everyone” in Raglan’s social life.
Ticket pricing varies. Small local performances and membership events (like quiz or sports nights) are often free or included with membership, while larger bands or touring artists may charge a modest cover (typically NZD $20–$30 per person, sometimes a bit higher for headline acts). Members usually get discounted or advance tickets. Special events and festival gigs follow posted rates determined well in advance; for example, the 2024 Country & Blues festival ticket was sold through an event platform (but general entry, like Luna & Valentine’s afternoon slot, was free) (www.raglanchronicle.co.nz ). The club usually advertises shows on its website and via local event listings, and tickets are typically sold through the club’s bar or via local ticketing outlets. Popular shows at the Club often sell out early, so regulars advise buying or reserving tickets as soon as the act is announced.
Tickets and Booking
For upcoming shows, Raglan Club usually posts details on its website or local noticeboards when tickets go on sale. Because the club is small, tickets for big acts can be limited – one strategy is to buy quickly through official channels once announced. It’s common for club gigs to have pre-sale windows for members or newsletter subscribers. Tickets may be available at the bar or via local event vendors (often Moshtix, TicketFairy, etc., though we won’t list them here). In some cases, live shows require only a door entry fee which can be paid on the night until sold out. Check Raglan news or the club’s Facebook page (search for “Raglan Club Live Music”) for the latest announcements.
Box office policy: If a show isn’t sold out in advance, tickets can usually be purchased at the door on the night (cash or EFTPOS). Cash payment on the night is common, but larger events often take card and cover both the performance and meal packages (like the Thursday steak special). Door sales typically open 30–60 minutes before showtime. For private functions, weddings or group bookings, the club has a small events team – one can book the clubrooms or outdoor area in advance (see the “Functions” notice (raglanclub.co.nz ) for hire costs). Generally speaking, booking a spot at Raglan Club is easy: phone the club (07 825 8288) or fill out the online form for club events and private hire.
Pricing notes: If attending as a non-member, be aware that some events may require a temporary membership or day fee. The club offers a seasonal membership of $10 for 3 months (with no permanent card) (raglanclub.co.nz ) which is a convenient low-cost option for occasional visitors. Otherwise, a guest may need to be signed-in by a member. Annual full membership is still only $40 single/$60 couple (raglanclub.co.nz ) and lets you attend members-only draws and discounted events year-round. Overall, cover charges at Raglan Club tend to be moderate, reflecting its local-club atmosphere rather than a commercial big-city venue.
Seating and Layout
Raglan Club’s interior is informal. From the street you enter into the **Main Lounge & Bar** area, which is a large open space with the bar along one wall and loose tables and chairs in front. Most live-music performances or speeches take place on a small raised platform at the head of that space (or sometimes on the adjacent **front deck** if outdoors). There is no fixed theatre-style seating – it’s general admission. For shows, people cluster around with chairs or stand near the stage. In quieter times the scattered tables offer casual seating to eat or drink, and there’s also a side **Dining Room** (the restaurant area) with tables that doubles as overflow seating. The fully-licenced **front deck** (covered but open-air) is also used for shows; it provides an outdoor stage-viewing area in good weather. Because Raglan Club is small, sight-lines can be blocked if the crowd is thick – standing near the stage or on the steps of the deck gives the best view.
Acoustically, the club is lively and can get a bit loud during concerts (typical of a New Zealand “top dinner” club environment). The venue has a modest PA sound system with simple stage lighting rig. Sound levels are tuned for band performances and DJ nights, so expect bass and crowd noise on music nights. One unique feature is the fully-fenced **Garden Bar** just outside one side, which has children’s games and some seating; it’s quieter and family-friendly until 10pm (raglanclub.co.nz ) (www.waikatodistrict.govt.nz ). Otherwise, plan to sit at tables near the bar or stand – there are no VIP sections. If you need a break from the energy, there’s a separate **Gaming Room** (for club casino machines) where it’s quieter, and another lounge area behind the bar. In short, the club’s layout is flexible but can feel snug when packed. Early-comers often snag a seat by the stage or on the deck stairs for the best concert experience.
Getting There and Parking
**Location:** Raglan Club is located at 22 Bow Street (Hamilton Road) in the heart of Raglan township (raglanclub.co.nz ). It’s about 10 minutes’ drive south of the Raglan Bridge and on the way from Hamilton on State Highway 23. The club’s address is 22 Bow Street, Raglan 3225 (raglanclub.co.nz ). If using GPS, entering “Raglan Club” or the street address will take you there. The club entrance faces Bow Street, and there’s a covered front deck looking out toward passing traffic (and views of the harbour in the distance).
**Driving and Parking:** If you drive, there is a small carpark behind the club, but note most spots are reserved by permit for members. The club offers an annual permit parking plan ($100/month) for local users (raglanclub.co.nz ). Day parking in the club lot is generally only available by prior arrangement. Visitors should plan to use public street parking instead. Raglan’s centre has plenty of on-street parking near Bow Street and on James Street, Stewart Street, and surrounding roads (www.raglan23.co.nz ). There is also a public lot by the fire station on Wainui Road (just a short walk away). Parking in Raglan town is usually free – just be mindful of any short-term time limits on certain streets. On busy evenings, a few extra minutes’ walk (to Wainui Road, government Road, or Elizabeth Street) can yield parking spots if Bow Street is full.
**Bus and Rail:** There is no train to Raglan. For public transit, Waikato’s Busit route 23 runs between Hamilton and Raglan (with daily service, including weekends) (www.busit.co.nz ). The bus stops on Bow Street outside the Raglan Library (on the corner of Bow and Stewart St) (www.raglan.org.nz ) – from there it’s just a short walk south back along Bow Street to the club. Buses depart the Hamilton Transport Centre roughly hourly (and more frequently in summer); see the Busit site or the timetable map. Notably, these buses are wheelchair-accessible and have luggage/surfboard racks (Raglan is popular with travelers) (www.busit.co.nz ) (www.raglan.org.nz ). The stop at the library is Raglan’s busiest for visitors, so it’s easy to spot. No matter which transit you take, follow Bow Street a few blocks south and you’ll see the club on your right (look for a small car park and the sign).
**Rideshare and Shuttle:** Limited rideshare services operate in Raglan. Raglan Taxi (Raglan Shuttle Ltd) picks up around town; their contact is listed on the local info pages (www.raglan23.co.nz ) (027 825 8159). For late shows, note that public buses stop running after evening and there is no nearby train. However, the club itself runs a courtesy van service on busy nights (driven by volunteer members) – call the club number or ask staff about it when booking if you plan a late departure (raglanclub.co.nz ). In practice, many visitors rely on driving or the cab service after the venue closes. Uber is intermittent in Raglan, so planning ahead with the shuttle or courtesy van is wise if you need a ride home late.
Inside the Venue
Entering Raglan Club, you’ll first find the friendly reception/bar area where you may be asked to show membership or sign in as a visitor. Security is usually low-key – this is a small-town club, so formal bag checks are rare, but staff do enforce common-sense policies (no drugs, no glass bottles from outside, etc.). Once inside, the atmosphere is casual and unpretentious. The decor is a bit dated (think wood-paneled lounge, club memorabilia, and trophies on shelves) but clean. Club uniforms or work attire is completely unnecessary; most patrons wear jeans and casual shirts. On a music night the venue is both laid-back and vibrant: club lights are dimmed, stage lights activated, and staff may even don themed outfits (line-dancing nights, for example, get people in hats and boots! (raglanclub.co.nz )). Generally the vibe is friendly and communal – it’s common to chat with neighbours at long tables between sets.
For food and drink, Raglan Club functions as a full-service licensed venue. The bar offers standard NZ pub fare: beer on tap (and in bottles), wine and spirits, plus local craft beers are often available. Non-alcoholic drinks (coffee, juice) are served too. The kitchen (restaurant) serves hot meals all day: expect steaks, burgers, fish and chips, salads, and daily specials. A popular tradition is the Thursday **Steak Dinner Special** (paired with line dancing and James Ray’s music, as noted above) (raglanclub.co.nz ). The dining menu is reasonably priced by local standards, so many visitors make a meal of it before a show. There is no age restriction on ordering food or non-alcoholic drinks, so families often dine in the restaurant area or garden side and let the kids play safely. Coats and belongings are usually kept at your table or chair; there isn’t a formal coat-check, so it’s best to travel light or hang jackets on chair backs.
Other amenities: Free wifi is not prominently advertised – assume only basic mobile coverage unless asking staff. Toilets (men’s and women’s) are just beyond the bar; these are modernized to club standards and include at least one wheelchair-accessible stall (as Raglan’s public facilities typically do). There’s no dedicated family restroom or baby-change room, so plan accordingly. The adjoining gaming room (for NZ slot machines) is set aside from the main lounge – minors are not allowed in the gaming room, but families can remain in the garden bar if there’s an event playing on the main lounge.
As with any New Zealand venue, smoking is banned indoors. Smokers can step outside onto the front deck or across to the garden area (both covered) if needed. Photography is generally allowed (patrons often snap band photos with phones), but professional camera/video equipment might need prior permission from management. The staff are helpful: feel free to ask about Wi-Fi codes, menu items, raffle entry, or courtesy van times. Overall, expect Raglan Club to feel more like a large friendly home than a slick corporate nightclub.
Nearby Amenities
Because Raglan Club is right on Bow Street in town, you’re within a few minutes’ walk of almost everything Raglan has to offer. Within the same block are several cafés and restaurants – ideal for pre-show meals or coffee. Walking north (toward the harbour) you’ll pass popular spots like Bijëns Burgers (for New Zealand-style burgers), Tasty Noodle House (Asian cuisine), and other cafes. Continuing on, you reach the main café strip around Bow & Stewart Street, which includes Whaingaroa Cafe, Jade’s Kitchen, and The Nibble (great for gluten-free treats). For a quick bite or fancy lunch, the daily Farmers’ Market is nearby (Fridays). After the show, Bow Street and Stewart Street also host bars like Patu Park Brewery or The Sandbar, where the music continues late into the night.
For lodging, Raglan has many options within a short drive or bike ride. Nearby (within 1–2 km) are motels such as Amble Inn or Seascape (on Bow/Wharf Rd), and the Raglan Holiday Park for campers. If you prefer self-catering, there are beachside holiday homes on Wainui Rd close by. The Raglan i-SITE Visitor Centre (also on Bow St) has brochures and can help arrange shuttles. If arriving early to town, you might also explore Raglan’s gift shops and galleries on Stewart Street (offering local surf art, jewellery, etc.) before heading to the club. Raglan’s walkable centre means you rarely need transport once downtown; just remember that after club closing (around 1am) you’d likely need a pre-booked taxi or shuttle back out along the highway.
What Makes This Venue Special
Raglan Club Inc stands out as much for its community role as for its entertainment. Unlike faceless commercial venues, this club is run by and for Raglan locals. It’s one of the few places in town where regulars of all ages mingle – retirees play pools, young locals strike darts, fishermen share tales at the bar (the Club even has its own fishing section) (raglanclub.co.nz ). The adjunct clubs (Fishing, Bowls, Darts, etc.) make it truly multi-purpose. For instance, the Snooker and 8-ball section sponsors regional tournaments (raglanclub.co.nz ), and the Fishing Club organizes charter trips on the weekend. This multi-activity aspect – essentially a social club with its own mini society – gives Raglan Club a special character unmatched by a standard pub or music venue.
Architecturally, the venue is unpretentious but charming: a low building with a veranda and patio, rather than a flashy corporate design. Inside, walls are decorated with local memorabilia, sporting trophies, and photos of past events. Two signature spots are the **garden bar** (large outdoor patio with grass section for kids) and the **front deck** facing Bow Street – these open spaces are unique and give a “village square” feel. On summer evenings, you might find locals sipping beer on the deck watching surfers arrive on their boards or enjoying the sea breeze. The fenced garden bar is safe for children and dogs (leashed), something rarer outside of family-oriented eateries (raglanclub.co.nz ).
Culturally, the Club has hosted many a memorable performance. County and blues stars drop in (James Ray has become nearly legendary on Thursdays) (raglanclub.co.nz ), and visiting acts report a warm, attentive audience. It’s not uncommon for the crowd to break into spontaneous singalongs or line dances during a set. The club’s role in festivals – for example hosting free gigs in Raglan’s Arts Weekend and the Country & Blues Festival – also shows how it enriches the wider community, turning Raglan streets into a live-music scene. Local tradition even includes the famed weekly Joker raffle, which draws visitors who have heard about the $1000 prize (raglanclub.co.nz ). In short, artists love its full but friendly atmosphere, and audiences love its relaxed vibe – everyone feels like part of a big family party. The fact that membership fees are low and most events modestly priced means it remains inclusive, a true “village club” where both artists and patrons feel at home.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Raglan 23 bus service is wheelchair-friendly (www.raglan.org.nz ), and the bus stop is just steps from the club entrance (www.raglan.org.nz ). The club’s main level is on one floor with no raised thresholds at the entry, so it is generally accessible. However, there may be a small ramp or steps to the deck. We recommend calling ahead if wheelchair access is critical. Inside, at least one restroom stall is accessible (as mandated by NZ building code), but check with staff on availability.
What to bring: Bring a valid photo ID (18+ required for alcohol and gaming). A cloth or small backpack is fine but large bags may get a quick look by security. You must have a club membership or be signed in by a member, so if you aren’t a member consider a $10 temporary membership (seasonal) at the door (raglanclub.co.nz ). For seats at shows, pillows or small cushions can make the wooden chairs or benches cozier. Dress is very casual; many country music fans wear boots and hats on Thursday, but this is optional. The club’s restaurant has an informal vibe, so nice shorts or jeans and a shirt is all that’s needed.
What **not** to bring: No outside alcohol or food (there’s a strict license, and outside drinks will be confiscated). Smoking is only in outdoor areas. Video recording equipment is typically discouraged unless it’s a personal phone camera. Keep valuables with you – lost items may not get turned in. Most importantly, do not bring any illicit substances. The club enforces NZ alcohol and safety laws, so expect modest ID checks late at night and respect staff instructions (e.g. stepping out if intoxicated).
Kids and Family: Children are welcome in the garden bar and restaurant until 10pm (raglancreatives.com ) (www.waikatodistrict.govt.nz ). After 10pm, the club becomes adults-only (the license requires minors to leave by close). You’ll often see families enjoying afternoon or early-evening meals together. Kids love the grassy play area outdoors and the jukebox inside. If bringing a child, explain the curfew rule and plan to depart by closing. The club offers kids’ meals and non-alcoholic drinks on the menu, and parents often rotate watching the show versus supervising little ones.
Timing and Planning: If attending a show, arrive 30-45 minutes early to get a good spot and order food. The restaurant can get busy on music nights. Doors usually open 7pm or so for 8pm shows, but check in case of early matinees or special events. On casual nights (like quiz or raffle nights), any time after 6pm is fine. Weekends can be busy in Raglan, so on summer evenings budget extra driving time or parking distance. Keep an eye on local news or the club’s Facebook for last-minute changes (bad weather sometimes shifts outdoor acts inside).
Local Advice: Folks in Raglan rave about the Thursday steak special, the open mic night, and the Joker raffle – those are must-try experiences. James Ray’s Thursday shows sell out fast, so if you find one advertised, book early (raglanclub.co.nz ). The courtesy van (as mentioned earlier) is free but runs on schedule; sign up at the bar early to reserve a seat if you need a ride home. Also remember that the bus back to Hamilton stops running late, so arrange a taxi/shuttle if getting home after midnight. Lastly, in true friendly fashion, feel free to chat with locals – many members will happily share tips about Raglan’s secret surf spots or the next live gig. Raglan Club isn’t just a venue – it’s where the town gathers, and a bit of local knowledge goes a long way to enjoying it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a member to visit Raglan Club?
Raglan Club is a members' club. Members pay $40/year (single) or $60/year (couple) (raglanclub.co.nz ) and enjoy full use of facilities. Non-members can still visit if signed in by a member or by taking a temporary membership. The club offers a short-term 3-month "seasonal membership" for $10 (raglanclub.co.nz ) which is a convenient option if you’re just in town briefly. Seasonal members get all access (except no large membership card or entry to some club draws), so it’s essentially like a day pass. In practice, most visitors just ask the bar staff and pay the $10 fee at the door if they plan multiple nights out.
How do I buy tickets for events at Raglan Club?
Event tickets are usually sold via the club or affiliated online ticket outlets. Raglan Club announces shows on their website and local media, and will specify where and when to buy tickets. For popular gigs, it’s wise to secure tickets as soon as sales open because the club is small. If an event isn’t sold out, you can often pay at the door, either in cash or by eftpos. In short, watch for announcements and plan on pre-booking early. If in doubt, call the club’s office and they can advise on the ticketing process or point you to the kiosk location.
What are the alcohol service hours at Raglan Club?
Raglan Club holds a chartered club liquor license. On the club premises, alcohol can be served from **9:00am until 1:00am** any day (www.waikatodistrict.govt.nz ). The **Garden Bar** (outdoor family area) is licensed only until 10:00pm (www.waikatodistrict.govt.nz ). This means patrons can legally buy drinks inside late into the night, but children and others in the Garden Bar must leave by 10pm. In practice, the bar tends to open mid-afternoon (around lunchtime) and stays open until closing. Private function hours may be extended by special license, but for regular days the above times apply.
Is Raglan Club child-friendly?
Yes, Raglan Club is very family-friendly *during the day and early evening*. Children are welcome in the restaurant area and in the fenced Garden Bar (raglancreatives.com ). There are kids’ games on the lawn and a relaxed atmosphere for families dining together. However, after 10pm the club observes the legal curfew: all under-18s have to leave by 10:00pm (raglancreatives.com ) (www.waikatodistrict.govt.nz ). Also, children are not allowed in the gaming room or at the gambling machines. Always supervise minors closely, but feel free to bring the family for an early dinner or afternoon concert on weekends.
Does Raglan Club have wheelchair access?
The club is mostly on a single ground floor level, which generally allows wheelchair access. The entry has a gentle ramp, and the main lounge has space for wheelchairs. Importantly, the Raglan 23 bus service stops right on Bow Street and all buses are wheelchair-friendly (www.raglan.org.nz ), making public transit convenient. Inside, disabled parking spots may not be at the front door (street parking is common), but accessible toilets are provided. If in doubt, call ahead to ensure any special needs (like an aisle for a chair or a lift) can be accommodated. Overall, while not a fully modern wheelchair centre, Raglan Club is considered accessible by NZ small-venue standards.
What kind of food and drinks does the Club serve?
Raglan Club features a full bar and kitchen. You’ll find a range of beverages typical of a Kiwi pub: local and imported beers on tap, wines, spirits and mixers, plus non-alcoholic drinks. The kitchen serves pub-style meals all day. Expect priced meals like burgers, fish & chips, grilled steaks, and daily specials. In fact, Thursday evenings feature a famous “Steak Special” deal alongside live country music (raglanclub.co.nz ). There are snacks and light fare too. Menus are updated seasonally, but all events in the club (e.g. live music nights) offer casual dining. Yes, children’s meals are on the menu, and the restaurant is often full of families early on.
Is there parking available at the club?
Parking right at the club is limited. The club car park is mainly reserved for monthly permit holders ($100/month) (raglanclub.co.nz ). Visitors typically use street parking in Raglan’s town area. Bow Street itself and nearby James and Stewart Streets have free public parking spots around the shopping district (www.raglan23.co.nz ). There is also a public lot beside the fire station on Wainui Road (a 3-minute walk). After evening events, these street spaces can fill, so give yourself extra time to find a spot. Note that Raglan is small and most attractions are walking distance – if Bow Street is full, park a block away and walk in.
What public transport goes to Raglan Club?
Hamilton Airport and city are connected to Raglan by Busit route 23. This daily service stops outside the Raglan I-SITE/library on Bow Street (www.raglan.org.nz ), right across from the club. Buses run seven days a week (roughly hourly to Hamilton, and a bit less frequently on weekends) (www.busit.co.nz ). Look for the "Raglan 23" bus schedule; it’s the main public bus line. Note: the last buses from Raglan back to Hamilton will depart before midnight, so plan accordingly. There’s no train to Raglan, but if driving to Hamilton first, Raglan is about a 50-minute drive via SH23.
Are outside drinks or food allowed inside the club?
No – Raglan Club is fully licensed, so outside alcohol is strictly prohibited. You cannot bring your own bottles or cans in. If you do, staff will hold them behind the bar until you leave. Outside food (like a picnic) isn’t allowed either; however, you’re encouraged to eat what the restaurant or bar provides. Feel free to bring non-alcoholic beverages though (water bottles, soda). Essentially, buy drinks from the club and avoid bringing any strong outside beverages to respect the licensing rules.
What is the dress code at Raglan Club?
The dress code is very casual. Think jeans, shorts, t-shirts, Hawaiian shirts, etc. On country nights visitors might choose boots and hats, but it's not required. You definitely won’t need anything formal. However, shoes and shirts are expected. Rugby jerseys, boardshorts, and even surf wear are all common, especially on weekends. One thing to note: the crowd tends to dress down, but being clean and neat is polite. In short – feel free to dress for comfort and come as you are (something common in NZ pubs).
Is Wi-Fi or phone charging available?
Raglan Club does not heavily advertise public Wi-Fi, so assume mobile data only. If you need internet, the signal is usually decent in the area (Vodafone and Spark cover the town well). There are power outlets by some tables if you need to plug in a phone, but it’s best to charge devices at home or in your hotel. Always remember to keep valuables secure while charging.
What time should I arrive for an event?
Shows at Raglan Club usually start at 8 pm. If there’s dinner in the restaurant, doors may open around 6:30–7 pm to allow eating before the music. We recommend arriving at least 30 minutes early to find a good seat or spot by the bar. For busy Friday/Saturday concerts, arrive 45–60 minutes ahead to avoid a queue and order food. On quieter weeknights or non-concert nights (e.g. quiz/raffle nights), you can stroll in any time after 6 pm. Basically, better to be early than rushed – especially on a small stage, once it’s full there’s limited space to squeeze in.
Can I book the Raglan Club for a private party or function?
Yes – the club can be hired for private functions, including weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, etc. Venue hire rates range from about $150 to $400 depending on size and time (raglanclub.co.nz ). This can include the bar and/or the adjoining hall and garden area. To book, reach out via the club’s contact form or speak with staff well in advance. Note that for function events the club may require a special liquor license for extended hours or outside alcohol, so plan those details with the manager. Overall, it’s a popular intimate venue for community events because it’s affordable and equipped.
Does Raglan Club have a courtesy van or shuttle service?
Yes, Raglan Club runs a free courtesy van for evenings, typically Friday and Saturday nights. The van is driven by volunteer club members and covers town drop-offs and pickups (usually within a few-kilometre radius). To use it, speak to the bar staff before the event, and they’ll arrange a pickup time. It’s handy for late-night returns if you live in Raglan or nearby. Remember, spots are limited and it’s not a 24/7 taxi – it runs only on club nights and coordinate-able shifts, so always double-check availability when booking your night out (raglanclub.co.nz ).
What happens if it rains – is the front deck indoor?
The front deck is actually covered, so shows there can continue even in light rain. It has a solid roof but open sides, protecting performers and the audience from drizzle. However, heavy storms might push the band inside. If an outdoor concert is scheduled and weather turns bad, the club will move it into the main hall (though space is tighter inside). For patrons, a light jacket or umbrella can be useful if you plan to watch from the deck. In practice, reggae and country gigs often go on rain or shine thanks to that sheltered design.
