About The Mayfair
Located at 69 Devon Street West in central New Plymouth, The Mayfair occupies a restored 1938 Art Deco cinema building (terangiaoaonunui.pukeariki.com ) (architecturenow.co.nz ). For nearly a century this landmark has been a hub of entertainment – originally built as Everybody’s Theatre (with a 1937 Thomas Bates–designed façade (terangiaoaonunui.pukeariki.com )), later converted into an arthouse cinema and finally a modern live-music club. Its most striking features are the classic 1930s exterior and preserved interior plasterwork and banisters, juxtaposed with a new glass skylight atrium that floods the space with light (architecturenow.co.nz ) (terangiaoaonunui.pukeariki.com ). The Mayfair can hold roughly 600–700 people for concerts (about 600 standing or ~230 seated) (zeal.nz ) (architecturenow.co.nz ), making it one of New Plymouth’s largest independent venues. In its heyday it combined a street-level bar and café (with tables on the covered Devon Street terrace) (architecturenow.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ) and a long entry corridor leading to a big auditorium with balcony. This blend of old-theatre charm and club-style layout gave it a unique character. After years as a bar and nightclub, The Mayfair Bar closed in October 2019 and the building was taken over by the youth organisation Zeal in 2020 (terangiaoaonunui.pukeariki.com ). Today it is generally run as a community arts and youth space (sometimes called “Zeal at The Mayfair”) rather than a standard bar, though it still hosts music and event nights under that banner (terangiaoaonunui.pukeariki.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Each era of the venue has been noted for conserving the original art-deco details – locals remark that “the building is now part of the city again, with all the memories that go along with it” (architecturenow.co.nz ).
Events and Programming
In its prime, The Mayfair’s calendar was packed with live shows of all kinds. It was a favorite local club and concert venue, hosting rock, pop and electronic acts as well as comedy and community events. Touring New Zealand bands frequently headlined sold-out gigs, and international acts like the Buzzcocks even appeared before local crowds. The hall’s layout was adaptable – small nights could curtain off the back for cozier gigs, while club raves used the full standing dancefloor. Genres ranged from indie rock to drum’n’bass or hip-hop, plus DJs and themed parties (New Year’s Eve raves and holiday nights were regular highlights). The venue also appeared on arts festival programs – for example, Sola Rosa played a Taranaki showcase in October 2025 as part of the Reimagine Festival (www.ticketfairy.com ). Throughout, ticket prices were reasonable: local band gigs often ran $20–$30 GA, while major touring acts sold tickets from $40 up to $60 or more (www.ticketfairy.com ). Comedy nights and charity events were also common, sometimes offering free or low-cost admission. In recent years (post-2019) The Mayfair’s public events have been less frequent since the bar’s closure, but the space still occasionally hosts concerts and city events under Zeal’s management (terangiaoaonunui.pukeariki.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Check current arts and music listings to see upcoming programing in this heritage venue.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for The Mayfair’s events are sold through official channels and authorised outlets – usually online New Zealand ticketing platforms or approved box offices (www.ticketfairy.com ). The venue itself does not operate a daily box office window, so most sales happen in advance. Popular concerts tend to sell out; join the venue’s mailing list or follow local event pages to catch on-sale dates. For example, a 2025 music festival show listed GA tickets at ~$49 each (www.ticketfairy.com ). Ticket prices vary by event: local gigs and open-mic nights are typically $20–$30, while headline acts range from $40 to $60+ including fees (www.ticketfairy.com ). If VIP or front-row packages are offered, those cost more. Always factor in service fees at checkout. Check each event listing for age restrictions – most nights are R18 (due to serving alcohol) and will require photo ID at the door (www.ticketfairy.com ). A good tip: arrive 30–60 minutes early when doors open (doors usually open well before showtime) so you don’t miss the start, and late entry may be refused after the show begins (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Seating and Layout
The Mayfair’s interior is largely open-plan. The main auditorium is a long rectangular hall. The stage fills one short end, and the opposite end rises into a mezzanine level with the DJ booth and lighting rigs (www.ticketfairy.com ). Patrons typically gather standing on the main floor (capacity ~600) (www.ticketfairy.com ). When a show calls for seating, about 200–230 chairs can be arranged (usually around the edges or on side platforms) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Two staircases at the back lead up to the mezzanine, which overlooks the dance floor and gives a bird’s-eye view of the stage (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Surrounding the periphery of the floor are a few high tables or booths for casual seating. In terms of sightlines, being front-and-center on the floor provides the best audio/visual experience, since PA speakers are placed to cover center-stage most evenly (www.ticketfairy.com ). Avoid standing in far-back corners if you want full sound; those spots can get muddy echo. From the mezzanine you can see everything, but you’ll be farther back (and quieter) than on the floor (www.ticketfairy.com ). Overall, front-of-house on the main floor is best for immersiveness if you like to dance or be close to the action – the raised areas can be used for a break from the crowd or DJ mixers.
Getting There and Parking
The Mayfair is easy to find at **69 Devon Street West** – just west of the Egmont Street intersection in downtown New Plymouth (www.ticketfairy.com ). By car, you can be dropped off right at the front entrance on Devon Street (note busy hours downtown). On-street parking is available but limited; most roadside spaces are metered (about NZD $1–$2 per hour) (www.ticketfairy.com ). For longer stays, use nearby council car parks: the multi-storey at 2 Central Street (about 3 minutes’ walk north) has roughly 2 hours free parking (www.ticketfairy.com ), and the Egmont Street car park is about 5–10 minutes away. Always follow the parking signs – do not block footpaths or park in no-standing zones. There is no dedicated Mayfair car park, so arriving early to secure a spot is recommended (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Public transport is convenient. New Plymouth’s Citylink buses run through the city centre; routes 6 and 10 go along Devon Street West (www.ticketfairy.com ). The nearest bus stops are on Egmont or Liardet streets (a two-block walk). Buses typically run until about 10pm in the city, so late-night shows may require a taxi or rideshare ride home. Uber and local taxi drivers can drop you off or pick you up right at the Devon Street entrance – there is easy curb access for drop-off in front of the building (www.ticketfairy.com ). (Pro tip: when leaving, coordinate with friends or a driver to meet on Devon Street itself.) If arriving by train or coach, the central bus station at Coronation Square is only 400m east (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Inside the Venue
On entering The Mayfair, expect a spacious, atmospheric interior blending old and new. Guests typically queue under the marquee, have tickets scanned at the door, and (for 18+ events) show ID (www.ticketfairy.com ). Security staff may do quick bag checks on busy nights. The foyer opens onto a street-level bar area with high tables; in summer some patrons sit outside under the covered veranda (city code permitting) (www.ticketfairy.com ). A café-style lounge (with coffee and snacks) operates at times, particularly during Zeal youth afternoon events. Beyond that is the restored atrium hallway with glowing pendant lights and gold-accent Art Deco motifs (www.ticketfairy.com ), leading to the dimly lit main hall.
Inside the auditorium, most of the floor is open for standing and dancing. The stage sits at the front end of the hall, and the old balcony front forms a railing on the upper mezzanine above the rear walls (www.ticketfairy.com ). There are a few padded chairs in the front (for VIPs or older friends wanting to sit) and tall cocktail tables near the rear walls. Usually bands (or DJs) set up a merchandise table with T-shirts and CDs at the back of the hall near the stage (www.ticketfairy.com ).
The bar serves standard pub fare – local beers, ciders, house wine and spirits – and operates on a **cashless** system (card or tap only) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Note: as of late 2021 all card payment is enforced and no cash is accepted inside. Outside food or drinks are *not* permitted (www.ticketfairy.com ), so plan to eat elsewhere before entering (see below for nearby dining). Drinking water taps and soft drink machines are usually available. The lounge area may sell light snacks (like fries or pizzas), but otherwise the bar menu is mainly beverages.
Restrooms are located at the back/side of the hall; multiple stalls exist and at least one is wheelchair-accessible (www.ticketfairy.com ). There are fans and air-conditioning to keep the venue cool, but packed crowds can still get steamy, so dress accordingly (www.ticketfairy.com ). Wi-Fi is not provided for the audience and cell service can be spotty inside (www.ticketfairy.com ), so expect to rely on face-to-face coordination. If you arrive with bulky coats or bags, check at the door whether a staffed cloakroom is available for that event (sometimes run by volunteers), or simply keep valuables on you.
Overall the vibe inside is casual and friendly. Staff and patrons describe it as a “pub-style” setting with lively music (www.ticketfairy.com ). Security and bar staff are generally helpful. In short, come prepared to mingle, be polite and enjoy the show, and the venue will feel welcoming and fun.
Nearby Amenities
The Mayfair sits in a convenient downtown precinct with many dining and entertainment options within easy reach. For pre-show meals, a short walk east along Egmont Street brings you to a cluster of casual eateries. Notably, the heritage *Devon Hotel* brasserie is right across Egmont Street, serving pub classics in a vintage setting (www.ticketfairy.com ). Nearby you’ll also find quick-service burger joints, Asian cafes (ramen/sushi), and poke or salad spots – good for a quick bite. Grab a coffee or pastry at Scratch Bakehouse or similar cafés on Tukapa or Egmont if you arrive early (www.ticketfairy.com ). There’s even a Countdown supermarket a block east for any take-away snacks or last-minute essentials.
If you prefer a drink before the show, the area is well stocked. The H₂O Nightclub (literally next door) and The Aurum just up Egmont offer craft beers and bar food (www.ticketfairy.com ). After a gig, Tukapa Street to the south is the nightlife zone – bars like Ubar, The Habit and sister pubs run late with DJs and cocktails (www.ticketfairy.com ). Liquor stores, convenience shops and dairies for extra drinks or snacks dot the nearby streets too. For visitors, several hotels are a short ride or walk away: the Distinction (Quality Inn) and Sudima hotels are ~10 minutes’ walk north, and the Ibis/Novotel complex on Liardet (downtown footbridge) is only about 5 minutes away (www.ticketfairy.com ). Budget motels line the highway to the south for those driving. If you’re flying in, New Plymouth Airport is a 15-minute taxi trip. Public bus riders can use the Coronation Square station (400m east) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
We recommend arriving early enough to dine or relax with friends beforehand. A safe strategy: grab dinner or a coffee nearby and then stroll over 15–20 minutes prior to doors. Late-night travelers should either pre-book a taxi or use ride-share at the Devon St entrance, since late buses are infrequent after 10pm.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Mayfair’s unique charm comes from its blend of old and new. Architecturally it’s “an art deco gem” (architecturenow.co.nz ) – one of New Plymouth’s few preserved heritage cinemas – so it carries a nostalgic atmosphere that locals treasure. Classic touches like polished wood banisters, plaster cornices and curved balcony railings (all from the 1938 era) evoke the mid-century movie palace feel (architecturenow.co.nz ) (architecturenow.co.nz ). At the same time, contemporary interventions (the glass atrium roof, vibrant stage lighting, and slick sound-and-light systems) give it a fresh, clubby edge. The architects noted it was gratifying to add such a venue to the town, observing “the building is now part of the city again, with all the memories that go along with it” (architecturenow.co.nz ). In practice, The Mayfair became a rare central-city relic turned cultural hub – it revived the old theatre for a new generation of concert-goers. Whether you remember seeing Saturday movies here as a child or are just discovering it now, The Mayfair stands out because it is a living piece of New Plymouth’s history made relevant for today’s live music scene (architecturenow.co.nz ) (architecturenow.co.nz ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The main entrance on Devon Street West is at street level (no steps) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Inside, an elevator provides access to the mezzanine and bar area. The ground floor performance area has an accessible restroom on-site (www.ticketfairy.com ). Wheelchair users can enter main-floor facing stage and find designated spaces (staff can assist as needed). For any assistance, contact the venue ahead of time.
Buying Tickets: Always purchase through official NZ ticket outlets or box offices (such as Eventfinda or Ticketek) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Save or screenshot your ticket on your phone. Do not trust sellers on social media.
What to Bring: Valid photo ID (18+ events have strict checking) and a credit/debit card (cash is not accepted inside (www.ticketfairy.com )). Bring earplugs to protect against loud music (the acoustics are lively (www.ticketfairy.com )). Dress comfortably for standing or dancing – no formal dress code. Small clear bags or clutch are easiest to handle; large backpacks may be checked.
Prohibited Items: No outside food or drink, no weapons, and no professional camera equipment without permission. Smoking or vaping is illegal inside or on the premises.
Behavior: The Mayfair is known for its friendly, down-to-earth vibe (www.ticketfairy.com ). Be polite to staff and fellow concertgoers. Staff enforce age limits and safety rules firmly, so don’t argue if asked for ID. It’s a good idea to meet your party in advance and designate a meeting point in case you get separated (phone signal can drop inside (www.ticketfairy.com )).
Timing: Aim to arrive 30–60 minutes before showtime (www.ticketfairy.com ). This gives time for entry queues and bar lines, and ensures you don’t miss opening acts. Doors often open early and fill up quickly. Late entry may be denied once the concert has started.
COVID-19: As of 2025 there are no vaccine passes or mask mandates required for attendance. The venue follows normal hygiene; hand sanitizer is often available. If you feel sick, consider staying home.
Unique Advice: Because The Mayfair is now also used as a youth space (Zeal) by day, daytime access may be limited to those programs. General visitors should plan for peak evening hours. When no ticketed events are on, the building may simply not be open to the public. Always double-check current opening status or bookings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is The Mayfair currently open to the public?
As of 2025, The Mayfair is no longer operating as a regular bar or nightclub. The tenant-run bar closed in late 2019 (terangiaoaonunui.pukeariki.com ), and since 2020 the venue has been used by the youth organisation Zeal for community and arts events. It does still host occasional concerts and festivals (often R18) under Zeal’s schedule (terangiaoaonunui.pukeariki.com ), but it does not have standard opening hours like a pub. Check local listings to see if any upcoming shows or youth programs are booked.
How do I buy tickets for an event at The Mayfair?
Tickets for shows at The Mayfair are sold through official ticket outlets (online NZ ticketing sites or box offices) – there is no box-office window at the door (www.ticketfairy.com ). For major concerts you must purchase in advance via the listed ticket seller. Smaller gigs might allow some door sales, but popular shows often sell out. Joining a mailing list or following local event pages will alert you when tickets go on sale. Always buy from a trusted source, and look out for service fees in the final price.
What’s the typical range of ticket prices?
Ticket prices vary by event. Tickets for a local band or open-mic night at The Mayfair often cost around $20–$30 NZD for general admission (www.ticketfairy.com ). Major acts and dance parties run higher – around $40–$60 or more, including fees (www.ticketfairy.com ). For example, a 2025 headline concert was listed at ~$49 GA (www.ticketfairy.com ). If VIP or reserved seating is offered, those premium tickets cost more. Check each event listing for exact prices and any early-bird or member discounts.
Does The Mayfair have assigned seating or is it all general admission?
Most events at The Mayfair are general admission – you stand or sit wherever you arrive on the floor in front of the stage. The main hall can accommodate about 600 standing patrons (www.ticketfairy.com ). When a show uses seating, up to ~230 chairs are placed around the edges or on the raised back platform (www.ticketfairy.com ). Unless your ticket explicitly says “reserved seat,” there is no fixed seating. For seated shows, it’s usually first-come, first-served among the available chairs. If preferred seating is crucial (for accessibility, for example), contact the organiser in advance.
What is the parking like near The Mayfair?
On-street parking on Devon Street West is metered ($1–$2/hour) and fills up quickly on event nights (www.ticketfairy.com ). A convenient option is nearby council parking: 2 Central Street car park has ~2 hours free on weekdays and is just a 3-minute walk (www.ticketfairy.com ). Egmont Street car park (5–10 min walk) also offers cheap hourly parking. Note there is no dedicated Mayfair lot, so plan to park in the public lots. Always obey parking signs (no footpath parking). Dropping off is easy on Devon Street right in front of the venue.
What public transport serves The Mayfair?
Citylink buses run through central New Plymouth. Routes 6 and 10 go along Devon Street West, with stops at nearby Egmont and Liardet Streets (www.ticketfairy.com ). These stops are a 3–5 minute walk from The Mayfair. Buses generally run until around 10–11pm. For late shows, check the last bus times or prepare to take a taxi/Uber from Egmont or nearby. The main bus terminal (Coronation Square) is 400m east, but services there also wind down by late evening (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Can I bring a wheelchair or stroller, and are there accessible facilities?
Yes. The Devon Street entrance is step-free, allowing easy wheelchair or stroller access (www.ticketfairy.com ). There is an internal elevator to reach the mezzanine and bar level. The ground-floor performance space is also all on one level. Importantly, the ground floor has an accessible restroom stall available (www.ticketfairy.com ). The venue staff reserve some front-row space for wheelchairs at many events. If you need specific accommodations, it’s a good idea to contact the venue ahead of time. Guide dogs and service animals are welcome.
What is the bag and entry policy?
Plan on a security search at the door. Guests typically have bags checked, especially on busy nights (www.ticketfairy.com ). Only small personal bags or clutches are recommended (large backpacks may be prohibited). Don’t bring outside alcohol or prohibited items – the venue is licensed and enforces a no-outside-drinks rule (www.ticketfairy.com ). Bottled drinks, weaponry or large containers will be confiscated. Turn in your tickets/ID at entry (and expect an ID check for 18+ shows). Staff are friendly but firm about rules, so packing light will speed up entry.
Is smoking or vaping allowed inside?
No. The Mayfair is entirely smoke-free. Smoking or vaping is not allowed anywhere inside (or on the premises). If you must smoke, you need to step outside to the street. Staff will remind you of this rule if needed. Breaks can be taken on the covered outdoor terrace or sidewalk during intermission, but don’t light up indoors.
Are minors allowed to attend?
It depends on the event. Many evening shows at The Mayfair are 18+ (since alcohol is served) and will NOT allow anyone under 18. If an event is all-ages (often daytime or specifically advertised as such), then minors can attend with an adult. Check the specific event’s age restriction before going. Note that Zeal’s youth programs (afternoons) welcome teens, but nighttime concerts are generally meant for adults only.
What food and drinks are available inside?
Inside, The Mayfair has a full bar serving a selection of beers, ciders, wines and spirits (www.ticketfairy.com ). There is no full kitchen open on event nights anymore. Previously a restaurant operated there, but now only bar snacks or staff-run food trucks might appear on occasion. It’s best to eat beforehand – for example, the Devon Hotel or cafes nearby offer full meals. During the show, light snacks (like chips, or pizza slices) may be available at the bar. Drinks are card-only (no cash) and typically range from standard pub prices. The hall also houses the usual restrooms (including an accessible one) (www.ticketfairy.com ) and some sporadic merchandise stalls.
Is there a dress code?
There is no strict dress code – come in comfortable, casual evening wear. Many people dress as they would for a bar or club (jeans, tees, nice tops). If it’s a themed party, there may be a costume suggestion on the flyer. Otherwise, as long as you’re not wearing very revealing or offensive attire, you’ll fit right in. Closed-toe shoes are recommended. Remember a jacket if it’s winter (coat check might be limited). Essentially, wear what you’d normally wear to a pub gig or dance night.
Should I bring ear protection?
It’s a good idea. The Mayfair’s sound system and acoustics can get loud, especially during rock or DJ events (www.ticketfairy.com ). Bringing earplugs can protect your hearing and make the volume more comfortable. Many regulars (and parents of teens) do use earplugs. They won’t ruin your enjoyment of the music, so it’s worth having a pair in case you plan to stand near the speakers or just want to take the edge off the volume.
How early should I arrive before a show?
Doors typically open about 30–60 minutes before showtime. It’s best to arrive around that time or a bit earlier if you want a good spot. Popular events can fill up quickly, so arriving early ensures you can get a drink, find your place near the stage, and not miss any opening acts. Note that late entry is sometimes restricted, so don’t plan to arrive after the show has started.
Why is The Mayfair historically important?
The Mayfair building is a beloved part of New Plymouth’s heritage. Opened in 1938, it’s one of the few surviving Art Deco cinema theatres in the region (terangiaoaonunui.pukeariki.com ) (architecturenow.co.nz ). It was a central social venue for decades, from early movies to live dances. The 2010s renovation restored many original features (mouldings, rails, tiles) while giving it new life as a performance space. Locals see it as “part of the city again” after it was revived from disuse (architecturenow.co.nz ). In essence, it’s both an architectural treasure and a cultural symbol of the city’s entertainment history.
Is The Mayfair accessible by public transport late at night?
City buses (routes 6 and 10) serve the Devon St area until around 10pm (www.ticketfairy.com ). If your event ends later, bus service is infrequent, so plan for alternative transport. Taxis and rideshares can layer up on Devon Street West (they are usually willing to pick up waiting passengers at the curb). Pukekura Park is within walking distance for late-night taxi staging. If you rely on public transit, check the last Citylink timetable or leave a short walk early to catch the final downtown buses.
What forms of ID are accepted for entry?
For 18+ events you must show photo ID. Acceptable IDs include a NZ driver’s licence, NZ passport, or a foreign passport with photo. Some identification cards like KiwiAccess or a 18+ card (Australia/NZ) are also accepted. Student IDs or photo library cards may not suffice. If you plan to drink, bring a government-issued photo ID to avoid being turned away at the door. (www.ticketfairy.com )
Are coat check or lockers available?
Not permanently. On major event nights, volunteers or staff sometimes run a temporary coat check at the entrance or in a side room, for a small fee. However, this is not guaranteed at every show. On regular nights there is no formal storage area, so plan to keep your coat in the hall or hold it. If you arrive early, you might ask security about a cloakroom, but be prepared to manage your own belongings.
