About The Yot Club
The Yot Club is a tiny live music bar on Raglan’s Bow Street that became legendary in its own right. Established by Peter “Pete” Coddington around 2007-08, it quickly grew into “one of New Zealand’s iconic live band and DJ venues” (www.raglan23.co.nz ). Locals affectionately call it “The Yottie” (www.raglanchronicle.co.nz ). The exterior looks unassuming – a weathered, notice-board coated facade – but the atmosphere inside is rich with posters, photos and passion (www.raglanchronicle.co.nz ) (www.raglanchronicle.co.nz ). For over a decade the Yot Club drew regional music fans (and even backpackers) out of Hamilton and Auckland for Raglan gigs (www.rnz.co.nz ). In Lonely Planet guides and NZ media it’s been praised as one of the country’s best small live music venues (www.raglanchronicle.co.nz ), a community hub that kept young people from driving to Hamilton every weekend (www.rnz.co.nz ). The club was run by owner Andy Meek (an Auckland club veteran) from 2013 until it announced its final summer in 2024 (www.raglan23.co.nz ) (www.raglan23.co.nz ). In short, the Yot Club mattered for its down-to-earth charm, its unpretentious late-night jams and the way it connected locals with touring bands from NZ and abroad.
Events and Programming
During the summer months Raglan buzzed on Yot Club nights. The program spanned everything from reggae and funk to punk and dub, often with DJs spinning dancehall, R&B or electronic beats (www.raglan23.co.nz ). Owner Andy Meek booked both his favourite party-starting DJs and roots bands, ensuring there was a mix of top-tier headliners and Kiwi underground acts. Over the years the stage hosted domestic legends (NZ bands like My Baby, reggaeguitarist Tiki Taane’s support acts, and Head Like a Hole) and many international groups. For example, in recent seasons Japan’s pop-punks Shonen Knife (Mar 2024), Aussie punks Cosmic Psychos (Nov 2023) and King Brothers, and high-energy NZ acts like The Cavemen and Racing have all played (www.setlist.fm ) (www.setlist.fm ). The Yotty also pioneered Raglan’s “Sunday Session” summertime parties: these started outdoors at 5pm (often $10 entry) with local DJs and food, then moved inside at 10pm (when a featured DJ or band would groove until late) (www.raglanchronicle.co.nz ). In short, any given week might see a bluesy folk night, a sold-out punk rock show, a reggae sound-system party or a surf jams session. Ticket prices were modest (typically around $10–$20 for locals shows, more for international tours), and the bar did brisk business even if many shows barely broke even (www.rnz.co.nz ).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Yot Club events were sold primarily online and at the door. The venue didn’t have a fixed box-office window, so fans relied on announcements through local promoters, venues and community radio. Big shows were often listed on Kiwi concert sites and announced weeks in advance; fans in Raglan and Hamilton would snap them up early. For sold-out nights, the door-list often closed at capacity. Smaller events and DJ nights sometimes offered door sales only (venue staff would note names on a list). Early-arriving punters often found better deals – for example, a Bob Marley tribute night sold $10 early-bird tickets and $20 at the door (www.rnz.co.nz ). In general, it was wise to watch local Raglan event pages and social feeds for presales, and to get in line when doors opened (often 6pm–8pm) to grab the best spots. Special gigs (e.g. holiday parties or senior music acts) sometimes had multi-tier ticket pricing, and posters in town or flyers on community boards usually carried the key info. Since the Yot Club’s announcement of a closing date in 2024 (www.raglan23.co.nz ), late-season events have sold out especially fast.
Seating and Layout
Physically, the Yot Club is basically a long rectangular hall with a bar along one side and the stage built into the short “Bow Street end.” There is no fixed seating: the middle of the room was a general-admission standing area (often turned into a dance/mosh pit). Along the edges of the hall one could perch on stools or at tables by the wall, but most people spread out in front of the stage. For acoustic and sightlines, the best spots depended on your preference: diehard fans who want to feel the basshead strokes stayed up front by the stage, whereas DJs offered room to move floor-facing. If you prefer a quieter vantage, the open-air courtyard (used during early-evening sessions) provided an alternate space to listen. The club’s gritty sound system delivered powerful volume but with typical “barroom” acoustics: speaker set-ups were usually modest (no giant arena PA) so there could be echo off the walls if you stood too far back. (www.raglanchronicle.co.nz ) In effect, the Yotty was all about standing-room camaraderie – many showed up with reusable earplugs or just accepted that it could get loud. (Note: for near-front views at skeely rock or punk shows, losing your hat to raucous front-row pits is common.) If privacy is needed, pick a corner by the bar or a side exit – those areas often stayed less cramped. There were no VIP booths or reserved decks; it was low-key and egalitarian. One thing to avoid was lingering too close to any flaring amplifiers if you’re microphone-sensitive: the speaker stacks at stage corners could be intense in volume.
Getting There and Parking
The Yot Club’s address is 9 Bow Street (corner of Wallis Street). Judging by New Zealand norms, “Bow Street” is pronounced like the letter B, not “bow.” By car, Bow Street runs into the little CBD. Be aware that Raglan’s core has many 2P street parking spots (usually electronic meters, enforced daily except Sunday). The council warns that holidays are busy, and wardens patrol the main streets – it’s safer to park one block away on James or Stewart Street (they have no time limit) and walk (www.raglan23.co.nz ) (www.raglan23.co.nz ). There is a pay lot on Wainui Road behind the fire station, a few blocks from Bow Street (www.raglan23.co.nz ). Rideshare services in Raglan are very limited; there is no airport or train connection directly to town. The common method is to take the Hamilton-Raglan bus (“Route 23”) or a private shuttle. If coming from Auckland or Hamilton, travellers usually transfer to the Hamilton Bus Terminal and catch the daily Waikato bus to Raglan West (www.raglan23.co.nz ). In Raglan the bus stops on Wallis Street (outside the childcare center) – from there it’s only a quick walk back up Bow Street to the Yot Club (www.raglan23.co.nz ). Late-night, the safest bets are to pre-book a local taxi (Raglan Shuttle) or carpool, as finding cabs can be tricky. If you plan to drink, consider a taxi pickup in advance (e.g. give the driver 15min warning). There’s a small rideshare drop-off right on Bow Street near the venue, which most taxis use.
Inside the Venue
When you arrive, you’ll see a single entry door on Bow Street. Staff will scan tickets or collect door charges at the entrance. Expect a quick ID check if it’s an 18+ show – New Zealand law requires valid ID (Kiwi driver’s licence, passport or 18+ card) for alcohol access. Bag policies are similar to other bars: no large packs, weapons, or glass bottles allowed. Security at the door is friendly but firm on rules (their job is partly why Andy could run rock gigs so smoothly). Once inside, you’ll find the long bar to your side (southern wall). The bar menu offered standard headlines: local craft beers on tap (Raglan brewery products are common), wines, spirits and soft drinks. We heard that in a sign of the venue’s informal nature, the “kitchen” was little more than a reheat oven (www.raglan23.co.nz ). In practice that meant you could grab bar snacks – for example we’ve seen pizza slices (often from a partner pizza stand), hot chips, or pre-made pies. The club’s atmosphere is very casual: many wear jeans or boardshorts, and sandals are fine (except at hardcore pit shows where steel-toe can be safer). Dress code was never strict – it’s more surf-shack than fancy nightclub. On gig nights, the humid, crowded crowd can make it hot; come prepared (light shirt, earplugs). The ceilings are not high, so sometimes smoke machines or fog could crouch low (some venues noted allergies). Many punters would stand or dance near the stage, but note that even during packed shows you could weave back to the bar if you need a breather or to order a drink. There were restroom facilities on site (Gents and Ladies); lines can get long during intermission. No coat check was provided, so coat racks and loose walls were used (so bring a small bag or tie jackets on your own). Merchandise tables for touring bands often set up near the front by the bar. Finally, Wi-Fi/power is virtually non-existent here – phone reception might also be patchy inside, so plan accordingly. Good connectivity returns in the street.
Nearby Amenities
Raglan’s compact town centre is just a stroll away, so you have lots of pre- and post-show options. Bow Street itself (on the waterfront) has eateries like Rockit Kitchen & Bar (upscale share-plates), The Haven Brewery & Kitchen (brewery meals), Fish 'n' Chop (casual seafood), Pipi (seafood dining) and others within a block or two. On Wallis Street (parallel to Bow) you’ll find ventured bars like The Raglan Club and Yotty’s sister successes (the Old School Arts Centre often lists community shows). If your crew needs dinner before a night out, popular choices include Italian at The Italian Place and Indian (updates pending). For late-night munchies, the town has small bakeries/dairies that stay open, or burger joints like 34 Bow Street. Coffee shops (e.g. Cafe Mondo) serve breakfast for those early birds after a gig. In terms of lodging, Raglan has boutique guesthouses and motels. Right on Bow St there’s Bow Street Accommodation (apartments ONE door down) and Raglan Club or Wharf Hotel a short walk. If you need a bed nearby, book accommodation early – weekends fill up fast. On a club night it’s wise to arrive 30–60 minutes before showtime to eat or park, since lines for food and drink can grow quickly. After the concert, taxis again are best flagged down on Bow or Wallis (be patient after big events). The Vine buses are generally done by 11pm, so late-night transport is taxi-only. Many people simply walk back to their stay if it’s riverside or along the estuary (it’s a well-lit, short walk in town).
What Makes This Venue Special
To understand The Yot Club’s appeal, picture a Gnarly lounge that somehow became globally famous to touring bands. There’s a raw authenticity here that you won’t find in polished city clubs. Locally-owned or run owners joined with passionate fans to create something unique. Owner Andy Meek drew on his experience running Auckland’s Ink Bar to bring big indie acts to Raglan (www.raglanchronicle.co.nz ). The intimate space means performers and audience literally bump elbows – artists often invite crowd-singalongs or storytelling from the waterfront crowd. Raglan’s bohemian surf culture blends with reggae and rock here; on any given night you might see surf t-shirts next to Mohawk hair. Many musicians who played at the Yot Club spoke of it lovingly. For example, the local band Cornerstone Roots (“fathers of modern Raglan roots”) played a sold-out Bob Marley tribute to a “capacity crowd” of locals and backpackers (www.rnz.co.nz ). Raglan songwriter Muroki chops his teeth in clubs like this and counts the Yotty among his homes. Even Lonely Planet understood: it featured in the 2018 guidebook, highlighting it to backpackers (www.raglanchronicle.co.nz ). The club also hosted several historical moments: it helped launch legendary bands (Head Like a Hole and Regurgitator rocked its stage) (www.raglanchronicle.co.nz ), and it earned a “best venue to visit” nod in a national Music Month feature (www.raglanchronicle.co.nz ). In a small town, a place like this becomes a cultural touchstone; audiences reminisce about hearing certain bands for the first time on Yotty’s tiny stage. In short, it’s special because it truly feels like Raglan’s living-room pub — just amplified and with way better live acts than the local High School hall.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Yot Club is a street-level entry but does have at least one small step at the door (so wheelchair users should check it out in advance). Inside is wide open, but crowded shows can be tight if navigating. There’s no lift (it’s all on one floor). As always in NZ gigs, bring valid photo ID if you plan to drink. If the event is 18+, minors may not enter (though family-friendly “outside” events have allowed under-18s off and on). In winter months the club often closed (Andy announced early summer-only seasons), so check if it’s operating – typically it ran from around November through March. Prohibited items generally include weapons, laser pointers, and illicit drugs. Personal cameras without flash are usually okay for amateurs (most bands don’t explicitly forbid phone pics), but professional video recording isn’t allowed. Keep your belongings with you – there’s no official coat-check, only spare seats or table space, so bring a small bag or locker if you have one. Plan to arrive hungry if you want food – once sets start there’s usually no kitchen service (beyond snacks or food trucks outside on busy nights). It’s good form to tip bartenders by rounding up or leaving small change. Expect concert crowds to be friendly. The staff have a rave-handed reputation, so if you behave and have fun the Yot Club’s community will welcome you. The prevailing vibe is “come as you are.” Just don’t block the exits or hold a ciggie at the door – smoking is not allowed inside (and quite uncommon in a busy bar space anyway).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of The Yot Club?
The Yot Club is very small – it’s essentially a standing-room punk cave. It can hold perhaps a couple of hundred people at most. Seating is limited (mostly benches or bar stools). Expect a tight crowd once capacity is reached; there is no formal seat assignment or large venue capacity.
Do I need ID or tickets to enter?
Yes – bring photo ID (driver’s licence, passport or Kiwi18+ card) for an 18+ show. If the event is all-ages (usually in an outdoor part of the club), ID may not be checked for under-18s. Tickets are usually purchased online or at the door; sold-out gigs often have a door list. Always keep your ticket receipt/email handy, and arrive early if it’s a popular show.
Where do I buy tickets and what are typical prices?
Tickets are advertised on local event listings and through the club’s social channels. Multi-tier pricing is common; local band nights might be roughly $10–$20, bigger touring acts maybe $25–$30. Ever-cautious patrons often buy early (some shows sell out). Box office windows conventional to big arenas are absent – either buy online or pay at the door (cash and cards are accepted). Late or VIP presales occasionally happen via band or club announcements.
What’s the seating/viewing situation like?
The Yot Club is mostly standing-room. There are a few bar stools and ledges along the back and sides, but you’ll spend most showtime on your feet. The stage is at the far end with a small lip. Dead-centre in front of the stage has the best sound but is usually the most packed. The open-air courtyard area (used early-evening) is less crowded. No official “best seat” – just lean where you like. If you get claustrophobic, standing by the bar is easier on the ears and provides a quick drink refill.
How do I get there? Is parking available?
The Yot Club is at 9 Bow Street, a walk from Raglan’s main bus stop on Wallis St. By car, visitor parking near Bow Street is limited/paid. Free 2-hour street parking is available one block away on James St or Stewart St (no time limit) (www.raglan23.co.nz ). The town’s public lot by the fire station (Wainui Rd) is a few minutes’ walk (www.raglan23.co.nz ). The Hamilton-to-Raglan bus (Route 23) drops you a block from the club. Taxis or the local Raglan Shuttle can also drop passengers at the door; rideshares are scarce late at night.
Are there food and drink options at the venue?
Yes. Inside there’s a full bar serving beers, ciders, spirits, wine and soft drinks. Often there are a few bar snacks or finger foods (pizza slices, fries or pies) available, but no full kitchen beyond reheating. For a meal, try one of the nearby cafes or take-aways before the show. Staff do recommend eating beforehand – the club’s focus is on gig-going rather than dining. (www.raglan23.co.nz )
Is The Yot Club wheelchair accessible?
Accessibility in older venues like this can be tricky. There is a single step at the entrance which may be a barrier. Inside, the floor is flat once past the door, but crowds can fill the space. The staff are usually helpful, but if you need step-free entry it’s best to call ahead and ask or look for help at the start of the night. The layout (bar on one side, open floor) is relatively simple, though there are no special platforms or seating.
What time do shows typically start and end?
Most shows start around 8pm (doors often open 7pm or earlier on Sundays for afternoon DJ parties). Live bands usually wrap up by midnight, DJs might go longer. Noticeable is that outdoor events in the club space close by 10pm (per liquor license) before moving indoors (www.raglanchronicle.co.nz ). If it’s an all-ages family event early in the day, check start times carefully (those might kick off around 2pm). Always double-check the event listing for exact times as line-ups vary.
Can under-18s attend concerts here?
Generally, evening concerts at the Yot Club have been 18+ only. Raglan license rules usually restrict on-site minors after 9pm. Occasionally an event (like a daytime festival or special “all ages” night) may allow those under 18 in the outdoor area only (with no permitted alcohol). To be sure, always check the posted age policy for the specific gig. OD staff will enforce age restrictions at the door.
How loud is it inside?
It can get very loud, especially near the front. The sound system is club-grade (not a small pub stereo), so expect rock or dance levels. Bring ear protection if you’re sensitive. That said, being a short room, the sound dissipates by the bar end – so if needed, step back to lower the volume. Also be prepared for lots of bass and bass drum thump. Locals often embrace it as part of the live music thrill, but it’s definitely not a quiet hall.
Is smoking allowed inside the Yot Club?
No. New Zealand law bans smoking inside pubs and clubs. If you want a cigarette, you must step outside, usually onto the footpath or courtyard. Be mindful of nearby smokers though – Raglan’s cool breeze can carry smoke into the entrance, so avoid the doorway when taking a smoke break.
Does the Yot Club have free Wi-Fi or phone charging?
No – there’s generally no open Wi-Fi network or public chargers. Mobile reception may be spotty inside. If you need to charge or go online, it’s best to do so before the show (the street or nearby cafes have better signals/wifi). Many people return to the street after or between sets to check phones.
What if my ticket was lost or damaged?
Bring any proof of purchase or ID that matches your booking under your name. Entries are often recorded on a door list. If it was an official ticketing sale, contact the gig organizer in advance. At the door, be polite and explain the situation – sometimes they can allow you in if the show isn’t full.
Are cameras or recording devices allowed?
Small personal cameras (or phones) are usually fine for snapshots. Flash photography is frowned upon during performance. Video recording without permission is not allowed, mostly due to copyright and performer requests. If a band specifically prohibits recording (often stated on entry posters), that must be respected.
Does The Yot Club have a coat check or lockers?
No, there is no formal coat or bag check room. A few coat racks might be placed by the walls during busy nights. Otherwise, patrons either hold onto their belongings or ask friends to keep items. It’s best to travel light – carry only essentials, as space is limited.
