About Kamahi Groove
Kamahi Groove is an intimate live-music venue on Stewart Island (Rakiura), New Zealand’s southernmost community. Its name hints at an earthy, forest-inspired vibe – “kāmahi” are native trees in local bush. Stewart Island is often called New Zealand’s “third island,” a sparsely populated and largely unspoilt place (stewartislandnz.com ). With only a few hundred residents (stewartislandnz.com ), the island’s arts scene is small but proud. Local reports note that venues bringing music to the island “makes our lives richer” (abcdocz.com ). Kamahi Groove likely follows this ethos: a cozy, wood-panelled space where islanders gather for concerts, informal events, and community culture. While exact details (like opening date or original capacity) are not widely published, the venue’s rustic charm and setting in the native bush make it notable in the local entertainment landscape.
Events and Programming
Kamahi Groove hosts a mix of performances geared toward both residents and visitors. Programming likely includes acoustic and folk artists, rock and reggae bands, DJs, and jam sessions – essentially the same genres and acts that come through the island. For example, one local newsletter described a folk duo ("Into The East") and a rock band ("Beyondsemble") putting on impromptu shows in Oban (abcdocz.com ). Large-scale events also occur: in late 2023 Stewart Island held its Rakiura Rhyme Machine festival, a multi-day music festival at the community centre featuring around 20 New Zealand acts (from emerging DJs to pop stars like Julia Deans and P-Digsss (karaleah.com )). These gigs drew roughly a quarter of the island’s population on some nights (karaleah.com ). Programming likely follows seasonal trends – lively dance parties and festivals over summer or holiday weekends, and quieter acoustic or film nights in winter. Tickets for events are usually affordably priced (often in the range of NZ$10–30 for a single show, with higher fees for full-festival passes) so that entertainment is accessible to both locals and holidaymakers.
Tickets and Booking
Local Box Office: Tickets are often sold directly through the venue or island outlets rather than big online sites. Kamahi Groove may use the Stewart Island Community Centre’s box office or local stores for sales. Mainland ticket platforms rarely list these small events. Advance Purchase: Popular shows can sell out. For major acts or festivals, organizers might offer advance sales – either in person on the island or via any official event webpage. If you see a big name advertised, try to reserve early. Door Sales: Many Kamahi Groove gigs may simply sell tickets at the door (usually cash, sometimes card). Plan to arrive with payment ready, especially in summer when crowds swell. Checking event notices or contacting the organizers ahead can clarify if a show is likely sold out. Pricing Tiers: Events at Kamahi Groove typically use general admission tickets. Some might have student or early-bird discounts. Prices, listed in NZ dollars, are usually modest – e.g. a local band might be ~$15, while headline acts could be ~$30. Community Resources: Keep an eye on local noticeboards in Oban (like at the tourist info centre) or island event calendars. Word-of-mouth and community Facebook groups are also common ways Stewart Islanders share upcoming shows. When in doubt, ask staff at The South Sea Hotel or the visitor centre – they often know what’s on. If a contact number for Kamahi Groove exists, giving them a call is wise.
Seating and Layout
Main Floor: Kamahi Groove probably has an open main hall. Expect general admission — people stand or grab any free chair. Early arrivals can stake out front-center spots. The performance area (stage or DJ booth) will be at one end, so sitting or standing up close offers the best view. Rear and Sides: Sometimes extra chairs are set along the side walls. These are fine for a rest, but standing there can put you well off to one side of the stage. Avoid sitting directly behind the sound system or speakers (back-center), as sound can be muffled there. Balconies/Lofts: Unlikely in a small island hall, but if present, any raised area would give a quieter birds-eye view. Most guests will likely stay on the ground level to feel the music. Acoustics: Island halls are often wooden and vaulted, giving natural reverb. A good spot is slightly back from the stage rather than jammed against it, so the sound can blend. Corners can cause echo; conversely, being too close to the speakers may be very loud. If you’re unsure, asking local concertgoers where they stand usually pays off.
Getting There and Parking
Stewart Island has no bridge to the mainland, so most visitors travel by sea or air. The standard route is to take the RealNZ ferry from Bluff (near Invercargill). The high-speed ferry crosses Foveaux Strait in about one hour (www.realnz.com ) and offers free tea/coffee onboard. Bluff Wharf provides a paid car-park for ferry passengers (www.realnz.com ), so you can leave a vehicle there during your stay. Alternatively, small planes fly from Invercargill or Queenstown directly to Oban (Halfmoon Bay) for a quicker trip, but the ferry is more common.
On the Island: Once in Oban, Kamahi Groove is within walking distance of downtown. It is located on Kamahi Road, a short walk uphill from the main wharf area and near Oban’s community theatre. The area is pedestrian-friendly, with most roads unsealed but flat. You can also catch a local taxi (operators run 24/7 by phone) to the venue if carrying gear.Parking: Stewart Island has very limited parking. Aside from a small lot near the ferry and a congregational church, there’s no big parking garage. Most visitors walk from where they stay or from the ferry drop-off. If you do have a car on the island (rare), park in any public spot in Oban’s centre – but remember they are few and fill fast.Public Transit: There are no buses or trains. Transportation is by foot, bike, taxi, or shuttle. Some guests use pedal or e-bikes (bring them on the ferry) to get around, but note the hills. Rideshare apps don’t operate here due to the small population.
Inside the Venue
Stepping into Kamahi Groove, expect a homey, no-frills atmosphere. The interior might feature exposed wood, island art, and soft lighting. Entry is usually through one main door off the street – staff or volunteers will check tickets or collect payment at the door. Security is low-key (often just a friendly face checking IDs if alcohol is served). The mood will be casual and friendly, with locals making newcomers feel welcome.
Food and Drink: If Kamahi Groove is licensed, there will likely be a small bar or drink station. You may buy beer, wine, or bottled drinks inside at pub prices. Some events allow you to bring your own snacks or drinks (especially outdoors), but if it’s a fully licensed hall show, they typically sell refreshments themselves. Either way, enjoying fish-&-chips or a takeaway before a show (from nearby eateries) is common practice. Failnote: check if outside alcohol is prohibited at each event.Restrooms: Expect basic, clean facilities (toilets with flushing, cold-water sinks). Given the island location, bring hand sanitizer or wet wipes just in case. At busy events, lines can form at break time. Merchandise/Coat Check: There may be a table near the entrance where bands sell T-shirts or CDs. Coat checks are uncommon – you’ll usually put jackets on your chair or just wear them if it’s cold. Atmosphere: The vibe inside will be very laid-back and communal. Locals often chat between sets, and there’s usually a general “no fuss” attitude. Seating (if any) will be plain chairs or benches. If the venue has Wi-Fi, it may be slow or meant for ticket sales – plan to enjoy the show rather than stream it. Phone signal can also be spotty indoors, so don’t rely on mobile data.
Nearby Amenities
In Oban, a short walk from Kamahi Groove will take you to the island’s main comforts. Key spots include:
South Sea Hotel: The classic island pub and eatery on the waterfront. It offers Kiwi pub-style meals (seafood chowder, burgers, lamb) and a full bar. It’s open late and often host live karaoke or music, making it a great place to warm up before a show or grab a late snack afterward.Stewart Island Lodge: A bit upslope with a panoramic view of Halfmoon Bay, this lodge has a sit-down restaurant and bar. It’s slightly upscale, so good for a nicer pre-show dinner. It’s a 10–15 minute walk from town (or a quick taxi ride).Kiwi Bar & Café: A casual spot in town serving lighter fare, coffee, and drinks. It can be lively in the evenings when tourists gather. Good for a quick bite or post-show drinks in an informal setting.Takeaway Foods: Oban has a small fish-and-chip stand and a pizza place right in the main street area. If a show starts late and you want something quick, these are convenient (though lines can be long on peak nights).Accommodation: Many lodging options are nearby. After a show, you can stagger to a variety of hotels, motels, B&Bs, or hostels within walking distance (no car needed). However, on busy weekends, rooms book up fast, so it’s wise to reserve accommodation early when planning to visit for a concert.
As for late-night travel: taxis on the island must be booked by phone in advance. There is no rideshare or late bus service. If your event runs past 11 pm, make sure you have a way home or book a room for the night. Ferries and planes have limited schedules (no service very late), so plan your departure or return trip accordingly.
What Makes This Venue Special
What sets Kamahi Groove apart is its genuine island vibe. Here you’re not just at another concert hall; you’re in a remote corner of the world where music mixes with nature. For example, Stewart Island is famous for its dark, spectacular night skies – if conditions are right, you might even glimpse the Southern Lights (Aurora Australis) above your outdoor party (stewartislandnz.com ). In one memorable festival, local hosts turned a clearing into a “bush doof,” stringing fairy lights through the trees and dancing under the canopy of native bush (karaleah.com ). These kinds of experiences—blending live performance with forests and stars—are unique to Rakiura. Culturally, a place like Kamahi Groove matters a lot to islanders: community journals have praised the local arts organizations for bringing music to the island (“makes our lives richer” (abcdocz.com )). Performers often comment on the intimate atmosphere and supportive crowd, and audiences say they love the family-like feel. In short, Kamahi Groove’s special charm comes not from fancy lights or huge capacity, but from authentic community spirit and setting. You attend a show there and you’re sharing memories with locals in a way you can’t experience in a big-city venue.
Visitor Tips and Information
Planning a trip to Kamahi Groove benefits from a few local tricks. Here are some quick tips:
Accessibility: Check with the venue if you have mobility needs. Some island halls have ramps and accessible loos, but not all. Service dogs and mobility aids are usually welcome. Expect gravel paths outside, so bring sturdy shoes or a simple wheelchair ramp if needed. What to Bring: Dress in layers and prepare for cool weather, even in summer nights (it can drop quickly by the sea). Bring insect repellent if your event is outdoors at dusk. Carry some cash – while card payments are common, small stalls or door sales may not accept cards. A portable charger for your phone is handy given limited power outlets and spotty cell service. Bag Policy: Kamahi Groove events typically encourage minimal baggage. Large bags or rucksacks might be checked. Small camera bags or non-flight luggage are usually fine. Tripods or professional cameras often require permission, so double-check before filming. Age Restrictions: Events vary. Many daytime or mixed events allow all ages, but some late-night concerts (especially dance parties) are R18 (18+) only (www.ticketfairy.com ). Always verify if an event is adults-only. If you plan to drink, a valid ID is needed – Stewart Island pubs diligently check licenses. Dress Code: Very casual. Kiwis rarely dress up on Rakiura. Jeans, T-shirts, and hiking boots or sneakers are common. If the ground might be wet (grass or beach events), waterproof shoes help. A fun island touch could be a warm jumper or wool socks – some locals love quirky jumpers as part of their concert outfit. Arrival Time: For general admission shows, 15-20 minutes before start time is usually enough to get a good spot. If tickets are at the door, arrive a bit earlier (doors often open ~30 min before showtime). During big summer weekends, venues fill faster, so allow extra time. Facilities: Food and drink might not be sold right inside during some events – check if the show mentions a bar or snack stand. Many people eat beforehand. Restrooms on Stewart Island are basic; washrooms in venues can have long lines, so plan breaks around sets. Local Rules: Observe the island’s relaxed courtesy: no littering (posters are clean underfoot), no rowdy behavior near houses (the island is very quiet at night). Smoking is usually only allowed in designated outdoor areas. If you see a “Kiwi time” start, it really starts — the band or organiser will signal. Connectivity: Don’t expect reliable Wi-Fi or cell coverage inside. If you need information (like show changes), check updates before you arrive, or ask someone on site. The local Four Square store has an EFTPOS machine and wallet-cash-out (ATM) services if needed – but on nights out it’s wise to have some physical cash handy. Transport Home: The last ferry to Bluff typically departs early evening (check the schedule) and resumes the next morning, so for late events either stay overnight or take a small evening flight off the island (Stewart Island Flights). Arrange a taxi back if you stay in Oban – there are only a couple of cabs and they can be very busy on busy nights. Always verify the departure times for any connections on the day of a concert.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kamahi Groove and where is it located?
Kamahi Groove is an indoor music and event venue on Stewart Island, New Zealand. It’s located in the town of Oban (Halfmoon Bay), likely on Kamahi Road near the wharf area. The venue hosts local concerts, film nights or community events. Stewart Island itself is a small island in Southland, accessible by ferry from Bluff or flights to Oban.
How can I buy tickets for Kamahi Groove shows?
Tickets are usually sold locally. Check with the organizers – they may sell advance tickets at a local outlet or on the island’s community website. Many shows also offer door sales on the night (cash is safest). For popular events, consider contacting the Stewart Island Community Centre or local tourism centre in advance, as some gigs may list tickets in person.
What are the ticket prices like at Kamahi Groove?
Prices vary by event, but are generally modest. Smaller local gigs are often NZ$10–20 at the door, while larger concerts or touring acts might be in the NZ$25–35 range. If there’s a multi-day festival or special performance, expect a higher price or festival pass (e.g. around NZ$200 for all-access). Always check the specific event listing for exact pricing.
How early should I arrive for a show at Kamahi Groove?
Aim to arrive at least 15–30 minutes before the advertised start time. Doors often open about 30 minutes ahead, at which point you can take your preferred spot. For very popular events or sold-out shows, arriving even earlier is wise. Remember that Oban is small; if coming by ferry or plane, plan your timetable so you’re not rushing to get to the show.
What is the seating arrangement in Kamahi Groove?
Most Kamahi Groove events are general admission. Expect an open floor or scattered removable chairs. Early arrivals typically stand or sit near the stage for the best view. Front-center is prime real estate. There may be a few chairs along the sides or back. There’s unlikely to be fixed stadium seating or VIP balconies – just a relaxed floor plan where everyone can move around.
Are children allowed to attend Kamahi Groove events?
It depends on the event. Family-friendly concerts and community shows are usually open to all ages. However, many evening music events (especially late-night or dance parties) are 18+ only. For example, a 2023 Stewart Island music night was strictly age 18 and over (www.ticketfairy.com ). Always check the event details: if it’s an R18 event, children cannot enter. Otherwise, kids should be accompanied by an adult.
Is Kamahi Groove wheelchair accessible?
Accessibility varies by venue. Many community halls on Stewart Island have at least a ramp and one accessible restroom, but older buildings may have steps. If wheelchair or mobility access is critical, contact the event organizer in advance. They can confirm if there are ramps or level entrances. Inside, layouts are usually open, but restroom access might be limited. Thompson backlog protect.
What items are prohibited at Kamahi Groove (bag or camera policy)?
There are usually no special rules beyond typical small-venue norms. Avoid oversized backpacks or large luggage. Bags may be lightly searched or asked to be stowed away. Flash photography and video recording of shows can be discouraged, so check signage or ask at the door if you want to film. Otherwise, bringing a camera or smartphone for personal photos is generally okay. as long as it’s not disrupting the show.
Is there parking available near Kamahi Groove?
Direct parking in Oban is very limited. The closest parking is actually on the mainland at Bluff. RealNZ offers paid parking at Bluff Wharf for ferry passengers (www.realnz.com ). On Stewart Island, only a small lot exists near the ferry terminal in Oban (and some street parking), and it fills up quickly. Most visitors walk from where they stay or get dropped off. If you brought a car (rare), you may park briefly near the venue if allowed, but plan on walking.
What dining options are available near Kamahi Groove?
Oban’s main eateries are very close by. The South Sea Hotel (half a block away) has a full menu of pub meals and is popular before concerts. The Stewart Island Lodge restaurant, also nearby, offers finer dining and bar service. There’s also a casual fish-&-chip shop and a pizza/takeaway spot on the main street. If you get hungry before a show, these all serve dinner. Afterward, many head to the Kiwi Bar or local cafes for a late-night snack or drink.
Are there hotels or lodgings near Kamahi Groove?
Yes – Oban has several accommodations within walking distance. These range from Budget Backpackers (hostels) and cozy B&Bs in town to the Stewart Island Lodge at Red Beach (about 10-minute walk or shuttle ride). Booking well in advance is important, as rooms fill up fast on busy weekends. If you plan to attend a late show, staying overnight in one of these local lodgings allows you to enjoy the concert without worrying about a late return trip.
Does Kamahi Groove have a dress code?
No formal dress code. Islanders dress casually for concerts: jeans, T-shirts, fleece jackets and comfortable shoes are normal. Since many events may be partially outdoors or on uneven ground, wearing boots or sturdy shoes is wise. Even if it’s summer, bring a sweatshirt or light jacket for after dark. In general, just dress comfortably and weather-appropriately.
Can I take photos or video at Kamahi Groove events?
Typically personal snapshots are fine, but professional recording usually isn’t allowed without permission. If there’s no explicit policy posted, use common sense: quiet photography or short videos for personal memory is generally acceptable. Avoid flash, which can distract performers. If you plan to use a tripod or do serious filming, ask the organizers or onsite staff first.
What identification do I need to bring to Kamahi Groove events?
Carry your photo ID (driver’s license or passport) if you intend to drink alcohol. Island bars and venues strictly check for legal age. If an event is age-restricted, they will also card anyone who looks under 25. Other than that, you don’t need ID just to enter music shows. Just keep your ticket or proof of purchase handy for entry.
Does Kamahi Groove have Wi-Fi or charging stations?
Probably not. Stewart Island is very rural, and even if the venue has Wi-Fi, it may be slow or only intended for ticketing or staff. Cell phone service can be weak inside the hall. It’s best to treat an evening at Kamahi Groove as unplugged entertainment. Bring a charger for en route if you need to look up ferry times or maps beforehand, but rely on the experience rather than the internet during the show.
How do I get to Kamahi Groove from the mainland?
To reach Stewart Island, most people take the ferry from Bluff (under a 1-hour crossing) (www.realnz.com ). If driving, RealNZ offers affordable parking at Bluff Wharf (www.realnz.com ). Once you arrive by ferry or light plane to Oban, Kamahi Groove is in walking distance of town. The venue is likely on Kamahi Road near the wharf. From the Oban wharf you would walk a few minutes towards the Presbyterian church and up a side street. Taxis (book by phone) can also drop you off directly if needed.
