About Dbar
Dbar (sometimes styled “D Bar”) is a lively bar and nightclub in central Taupō, situated at 22 Tūwharetoa Street (pokiesnearme.co.nz ). Opened in July 2015 (www.millenniumhotels.com ), it has established itself as a core venue in Taupō’s nightlife. The venue truly lives up to its description as a “typical New Zealand nightspot” (www.millenniumhotels.com ): by day and early evening it offers a casual sports-bar atmosphere with pool (billiards) tables, pub food and sports broadcasts, then it transforms into a dark, loud dance club as the night progresses. Dbar’s layout combines a long bar with seating and table areas along the edges, and a spacious central floor for dancing. There are no assigned seats – most guests mingle, stand or sit at high tables and bar stools. In addition to bar service, Dbar features 18 poker machines (gaming machines) (pokiesnearme.co.nz ), placing it among the town’s larger venues. (The machines operate under The Lion Foundation’s license (www.gambl.com ), meaning some proceeds support community causes.) The overall decor is modern Kiwi-bar style: neon lights, TV screens, and a built-in sound/lighting rig. Though Dbar sits in an unassuming commercial building, it has become notable locally for its energetic vibe and late-night appeal.
Events and Programming
Dbar offers a variety of events and entertainment most weeks. The club often runs themed nights such as trivia or karaoke, and DJs on weekends create a dance-party atmosphere. It also hosts live music shows, usually featuring cover bands or local acts. For example, past listings have included performances by bands like Paua (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Dbar is also known for occasional large celebrations. One prominent example is “Shake the Lake,” a New Year’s Eve festival held at Dbar. According to event details, Shake the Lake 2025 was a 12-hour spectacular (3 PM–3 AM) with live tribute bands and world-class DJ sets, billed as “Taupō’s Biggest New Year’s Eve Celebration” (www.railtix.net ). Such major events attract hundreds of people, drawing both locals and visitors. Smaller acts and themed parties (EDM nights, rock covers, reggae sessions, etc.) happen regularly, and major sporting events are shown live on the big screens. Entry to most evenings is general admission; minor cover charges (around NZ$5–15) may apply for special nights. Larger ticketed events typically range from about $20 up to $40 per person (www.railtix.net ) (with early-bird prices on the low end and late/door sales higher). Overall, Dbar’s programming is diverse – from low-key quiz or beer-tasting nights to full-blown dance parties and band gigs – reflecting the tastes of both the local Taupō crowd and backpacker visitors.
Tickets and Booking
For most evenings at Dbar you can simply turn up; a few special events require tickets. Dbar generally does not have its own box office or membership scheme – instead, tickets for concerts or big parties are sold via ticketing outlets or online through the event organizers. To attend a higher-profile event (such as a visiting band or large festival night), it’s best to buy in advance once announced. In practice, announcements go out on local social media and through Taupō event listings. Promoters often use generic ticket sites (no need for specific names), but you will pay the advertised price plus any booking fee. For example, the Shake the Lake New Year’s Eve party offered early-bird tickets for $20 NZD, general admission at $30, and late entry at $40 (www.railtix.net ). In contrast, many local nights have either no cover or a modest fee. Strategies for popular shows include signing up for any available pre-sale codes or arriving early at the door if some tickets remain. Private-function bookings (e.g. hen’s parties or corporate events) are possible by contacting Dbar well in advance; the venue can accommodate bookings outside public hours. Overall, expect cover-charge pricing in the range of roughly NZ$10–20 for lively bar nights and $30–40 for major events (www.railtix.net ). Keep an ear on local ads and word-of-mouth – supplies like these are not generally available through large ticketing chains, but rather from Taupō’s local promoters or the venue’s own channels.
Seating and Layout
Dbar’s interior is essentially an open-plan, single-floor club space. The main dance floor occupies the center, with a DJ booth or small stage at one end. The perimeter walls feature a long bar counter on one side and some raised seating and tables along the edges. You won’t find rows of theatre-style seats – the environment encourages mingling and dancing. For a quieter spot, booths and chairs near the back wall or corners are available, but these fill up quickly on busy nights. The best viewing of performers is generally from the center of the dance floor or standing right in front of the small stage/DJ area. Sound and lighting equipment is installed above the room, so acoustics are typical of a nightspot (no seat in the house is truly “off-limits,” but bass is strongest toward the front center). Wise patrons may avoid standing too near the large side speakers (which can be very loud), and may also steer clear of crowded doorways or the immediate entry area (to avoid drafts and congestion when people enter). Overall, there are no VIP or reserved sections; everyone shares the same general areas. Acoustic-wise, the venue is designed so that music envelops the crowd equally. (Listeners should note that club music is quite loud throughout the room – as in most bars, earplugs can be helpful if you’re sensitive to noise.)
Getting There and Parking
Dbar is located at 22 Tūwharetoa Street, right in Taupō’s town centre (pokiesnearme.co.nz ). This blocks-long street runs parallel to the lakefront; Dbar is just a short stroll from Lake Taupō. For drivers, there’s limited metered street parking on Tūwharetoa and nearby side streets (feed the machines). On weekends and evenings, these fill up fast. A larger public carpark is on Lake Terrace (behind Pipeline Shops) or along Tamamutu Street, a few minutes’ walk away. Most central Taupō parking is free after 6 PM and on Sundays, which may help if you plan a late night out. Keep in mind that Taupō’s tiny downtown can get busy, so allow extra time for parking. Ride-share services (Uber/Lyft) are not widely available here; instead it’s common to use local taxi companies. There’s a taxi rank near Lake Terrace/Spa Street, and taxis can be flagged down or called too. For public transport, head to the Taupō central bus stop (on Spa or Tamamutu Street, near the I-SITE Visitor Centre). Dbar is then roughly a five-minute walk (e.g. walk one block south and one east). The main InterCity coach stop is at Horomatangi Street or along Spa Street – again, just a short walk to Dbar’s block. In summary, driving and dropping off at the door is convenient (taking care with parking); alternatively, buses stop within a few blocks and local taxis can return you home late.
Inside the Venue
Upon entering Dbar, you’ll typically pass a small foyer and/or a doorperson (especially later at night). Expect a simple ID check – phones or photo ID are required to prove age, as the club is restricted to adults. The atmosphere inside is friendly and energetic: groups chatting over drinks, colorful lights sweeping the ceiling, and music pumping. Staff will greet you at the bar; service is generally efficient though busy nights mean short waits. The drink menu is standard for a Kiwi bar: local craft beers and mainstream lagers on tap (~NZ$10–$12 for a pint), a set of house wines by the glass, and a full lineup of spirits and cocktails. The kitchen (if any) serves pub-style fare – think burgers, pizza, fries and bar snacks. While not a formal restaurant, you can grab a bite (many patrons arrive hungry) – menu specials are often chalked on a board. Restrooms are segregated (men’s and women’s), located off to the side; no attendants are posted, so bring change for the coin-operated wash services if required. (Note: this is a fully licensed venue, so outside drinks are not allowed.) Coat and bag checks are not formally offered, but people often hang backpacks or jackets in a corner or place them at their feet. If visiting in winter, be aware it can get quite warm inside once packed, so layers are wise. Connectivity: most patrons manage fine with cellular data; there is no official guest Wi-Fi advertised. The venue’s music and talks are fairly loud, so to converse with friends you may need to step toward quieter edges. At closing time (usually 3 AM) the lights come on and everyone exits; it pays to keep track of your belongings when the crowd leaves en masse. Overall, Dbar is no-frills inside – just a big open room with friendly bartenders, a dancefloor, and the memorabilia of a classic pub (posters, neon signs, sports memorabilia). Feel free to take photos with phones, but keep in mind performers may not want professional cameras or flashlights during sets.
Nearby Amenities
Several restaurants and cafés lie within a two- to five-minute walk of Dbar, making pre-show dining easy. Directly on Tuwharetoa Street are casual pubs and eateries: for example, Sabah’s Indian Kitchen and Japanese takeaways. A block east is Spa Street, home to Plateau Bar + Eatery (upscale pub-grub) and The Brantry (Italian pizzas). Across the road on Tamamutu Street are fast-food and takeaway spots like BurgerFuel and Hell Pizza (open late), as well as small cafes. For a fancier meal before the evening, head toward the waterfront: the Terrace Bar & Brasserie (often called The Bay, on Horomatangi Street) and Waterside Restaurant & Bar offer lake views and sit-down service. Also nearby is Finn MacCuhal’s Irish Pub and Mulligans sports bar for hearty pub meals. If you arrive hungry and raw fries top of mind, Morrisons Fish & Chips (on Torlesse St) tends to stay open late. As for nightlife after Dbar, the central district has other bars (Lakehouse, Plateau) and cafés (Tahaaroa Estate Burrito Bar, etc.) that wrap up food service around midnight or shortly after. Hotels are plentiful: Novotel Taupō (on Lake Terrace), Quest Taupō, and several motels are within a few blocks – convenient if you can’t drive home. In short, coming early to savour dinner is a good idea: whether grabbing a gourmet burger at Plateau, Thai curry on far-running, or a classic Kiwi fish-and-chips, you’ll find dining options just minutes from Dbar. Late-night snack choices dwindle after 11pm (apart from pizza shops and dairies), so plan accordingly.
What Makes This Venue Special
Dbar stands out in Taupō primarily because it combines elements normally found scattered across different venues. It houses a full-fledged bar, a bunch of pokies, pool tables, sports-screen viewing and a bona fide dance club all under one roof (www.eventfinda.co.nz ) (pokiesnearme.co.nz ). In other words, it can serve a lounging beer crowd at 6 PM and a dancing party crowd by midnight, without missing a beat. This versatility is unique for a town of this size. The late opening hours (often until 3 AM) also make it a rare pick for night-time entertainment in small-town New Zealand – as Millennium Hotels notes, it really caters to both locals and backpackers seeking late-night fun (www.millenniumhotels.com ). Culturally, Dbar has become part of Taupō’s modern nightlife lore. While the building itself isn’t historic, the venue has marked many special nights: locals recall impromptu Halloween dress-ups, local band milestones, and of course the explosive New Year’s Eve parties mentioned earlier. Tourists often report that Dbar captures a very Kiwi party vibe – friendly crowds singing karaoke together or chanting along to rugby tries on the big screen. Economically, Dbar contributes by keeping the town centre alive after dark – it draws crowd that patronise nearby restaurants and transports. Through its Lion Foundation gaming license (www.gambl.com ), it even feeds charity grants (the Foundation’s profits are shared with community causes, including some in the Taupō area). All of this – the blend of gaming, dancing and sports, the 18-machine arcade, and a downtown location just one block from the lake – gives Dbar a character distinct from every other local bar or cafe nearby. Both performers and audiences appreciate it: musicians get a packed dancefloor on Fridays, and patrons enjoy the variety of entertainment in one place. In short, Dbar matters to Taupō as the town’s pocket-sized dance club and sports bar combined, a local legend for nights out (www.millenniumhotels.com ) (www.eventfinda.co.nz ).
Visitor Tips and Information
**Access:** The venue may have a small step at the entrance. There’s no elevator – it’s all on one floor – so wheelchair access could be limited. (A local access guide lists many Taupō bars and notes if they have ramps or accessible toilets. Dbar isn’t explicitly mentioned, so plan on contacting the venue directly if you need assistance.) Inside, expect narrow passages around tables when it’s busy. Accessible parking is scarce on Tūwharetoa Street; closer disabled parks are usually on Lake Terrace near the I-SITE. It’s wise to call ahead if you require any special accommodation.
**Age & ID:** This is an 18+ club by law once the pokies operate. Carry valid photo ID (NZ driver’s licence, passport, or Kiwi 18+ card) for entry. Children and teens are generally not allowed after early evening (indeed, a big New Year’s event explicitly required under-18s to have a guardian and leave by 7 PM (www.railtix.net )). Dress is informal – expect most people in jeans, tees or casual shirts. No formal coat or tie is needed, but shoes are required. It’s a popular Kaupapa Māori venue, so no gang patches or gang-affiliated clothing allowed per New Zealand liquor laws (check the venue policy if unsure).
**Doors & Lines:** On busy nights or big events, lines can form outside. To avoid a wait, plan to arrive early (sometimes just after doors open) or opt for quieter midweek sessions. If you do join a queue, the doorstaff usually take IDs early, so have them ready. Bag checks are possible if the place is full; keep belongings minimal (purse or small backpack) and valuables secure. Electronic payments are accepted (cards and phone pay), but it’s always good to carry some cash for tip jars or coin slots in restrooms.
**Atmosphere & Conduct:** Be ready for very loud music; ear plugs can make a difference if you’re sensitive. No outside food or drink is allowed. Note the smoking rules: indoor smoking is banned by Kiwi law, so if you smoke you’ll need to step outside (there may be a dedicated outdoor smoking corner). The dance floor area can get warm, so layers are useful. As with any NZ pub, common courtesy goes a long way: NZers often queue patiently at the bar, drink responsibly, and mingle. It’s a friendly venue but still watch your drink and keep an eye on friends (especially late at night).
**Amenities:** Restrooms are standard; bring a coin (or tap if available) for any sanitary bins. There’s no coat check, so hang jackets on chairs or keep them in hand. Free Wi-Fi isn’t advertised, so don’t rely on it for meeting up – mobile coverage is good downtown, though. Photo-taking is generally fine, but turn off flash during live show performances. If you lose something, the bar staff can hold it or help you try to locate it after the night.
**What to Bring:** Apart from ID, bring a small wallet. If you intend to dance, a secure phone pocket is helpful. Bit of thinking tip: consider packing ear protection, and a water bottle is not allowed inside (but drinks are affordable enough). Don’t bring valuables you can’t afford to lose; cell reception is good enough to ride hail a taxi if needed. Lastly, carry the address (22 Tūwharetoa Street) and one local taxi number, since phone or network issues occasionally happen in rural areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Dbar’s opening hours?
Dbar’s hours vary by day. Generally it opens mornings (around 9 AM) and stays open late on performance nights. On weeknights (Wed, Thu) and weekends (Fri, Sat) it typically closes at 3 AM (pokiesnearme.co.nz ). Earlier in the week it may close earlier (Sunday closes by evening) (pokiesnearme.co.nz ). Exact times can change, so check current listings before going.
How can I buy tickets for a show at Dbar?
For special events, tickets are sold by promoters or online ahead of time. Follow local event listings or the venue’s announcements. Very often you buy through an online ticketing outlet (with fees), or occasionally at the door. Regular themed nights (karaoke, trivia, DJs) usually have easy phone or online booking options, while some allow walk-ins with cash at the door if space remains. It’s wise to buy early for popular shows, as sold-out events happen (e.g. a New Year’s Eve party had early-bird NZ$20 and general $30 tickets (www.railtix.net )).
What is the capacity of Dbar?
The exact capacity isn’t published, but Dbar is a mid-sized club space. Judging by fire regulations and crowd accounts, it likely fits around 150–250 people comfortably when set up for a big event. The layout is mostly open standing room, so capacity depends on floor space usage. By local standards, it’s larger than a small pub but smaller than Taupō’s main arenas. For sold-out events (like the 12-hour New Year’s bash) the club was reportedly full, confirming its status as one of the larger nightlife venues in town.
What is the seating layout and best viewing spots?
Dbar has general admission with standing-space dance floor. There are bar stools and high tables along the sides and back wall, but no fixed “good seat” sections. For the best experience, try to stand near the centre-front of the dance floor or stage for clear sightlines and full sound. If you want quieter seating, small tables along the edges (near the bar or rear) offer respite, but views of the stage/DJ booth may be partially obstructed. Avoid crowding right by the side speakers (very loud) or blocking doorways. In short: dance floor middle for energy, edges for sitting.
How do I get to Dbar by public transport?
Taupō is small, so there’s no subway or train. Buses on Taupō’s local routes stop downtown on Horomatangi or Tamamutu Street (near Suncourt Hotel and I-SITE). From there, it’s a 5–8 minute walk: head onto Tuwharetoa Street and Dbar will be on your left (just past a pharmacy). InterCity coaches usually stop at the Taupō bus terminal (Horomatangi St), and from there Dbar is a quick walk south-east. If arriving late, note that most buses stop by 9–10 PM; you’d need a taxi home after last orders. For cab service, look for a taxi rank on Lake Terrace or call Taupō Taxis / secondtaxis.
Is there parking at or near Dbar?
Dbar sits on a town street with limited street parking. Metered parking on Tuwharetoa Street is available (usual 2-hour limits apply, often paid until 6 PM on weekdays). There is a larger pay-and-display carpark on Lake Terrace (just down the hill toward the lake) which is a 3–5 minute walk to Dbar. After hours, Taupō street parking is typically free. A small private lot behind the Lakeside building (next to Dbar) is usually reserved for staff, so don’t rely on it. In busy times, plan to park a few blocks away and walk or take a quick taxi drop-off at the door.
Are there wheelchair-accessible facilities at Dbar?
Dbar’s entrance has a small step and no ramp, so accessibility is limited. Inside, all activities are on one level, which helps, but the narrow layout can make navigation tricky when crowded. The venue is not listed in Taupō’s official “accessible pubs” guide, suggesting it may not meet full accessibility standards (no mention of dedicated ramps or lifts). If you need special assistance or access (ramp, accessible restroom), it’s best to contact the venue in advance. For support venues with fully accessible facilities, other Taupō bars and restaurants (like Plateau or Waterside) are noted to have ramps or accessible toilets, but Dbar likely does not.
What is Dbar’s age restriction and ID policy?
Dbar is alcohol-licensed and has poker machines, so under Kiwi law it’s generally restricted to adults. You must be 18 or older to enter during gambling hours. Valid ID (NZ driver’s license, passport or Kiwi 18+) is required. There have been specific rules noted: one New Year’s Eve event required anyone under 18 to be accompanied by a parent and to leave by 7 PM (www.railtix.net ). In practice, no unaccompanied minors are allowed once the venue becomes a club later in the evening. Carry photo ID at all times; patrons without ID will not be admitted.
Are there any dress codes or prohibited items?
Dbar maintains a casual vibe. There’s no formal dress code – casual dress (jeans, t-shirts, shorts) is fine. However, be prepared for nightclub attire after dark (no bare feet, stripped torsos, or offensive clothing). Items often prohibited include large backpacks, weapons or sharp objects, and outside alcohol. Smoking inside is banned (by NZ law), so only smoke in designated outdoor areas. If you plan to dance, wearing comfortable shoes is wise. Bag checks are possible on busy nights, and management reserves the right to refuse entry to anyone not meeting standard nightclub rules.
Can I bring food or drinks into Dbar?
No. Dbar is a fully licensed venue and does not allow outside food or drink. All beverages must be purchased at the bar. You may bring snacks in your pockets, but anything considered food/drink is discouraged. If you’re hungry, the bar serves pub food (burgers, fries, pizza, etc.), and nearby restaurants and takeaways can be used before you enter. Any attempt to sneak in alcohol will lead to refusal of entry or ejection.
What sound and lighting setup does Dbar have?
While Dbar’s exact equipment details are proprietary, it functions as a nightclub with a professional PA system and DJ/dance lighting. You’ll see ceiling-mounted speakers, subwoofers and colored stage lights that pulsate to music. For live bands or DJs, there’s a standard mixing desk and microphone setup near the stage area. The lighting includes strobes and color washes typical of small clubs. In short, Dbar has everything needed for loud music and dancing – the sound is powerful but not “arena” loud, and the lights create a lively party atmosphere after dark.
Can I charge my phone or use Wi-Fi at Dbar?
Dbar is not known for customer Wi-Fi or charging stations. Mobile reception in downtown Taupō is generally good, so most people use their own data. There is seating by the bar where you could plug in a charger if needed, but don’t rely on public charging. It’s best to assume no Wi-Fi; plan to use phone data or download anything you need before you go.
What happens at closing time?
On nights when Dbar closes (usually 3 AM on Thu–Sat), the music cuts and the lights come on. Staff will ask patrons to finish drinks and prepare to leave. A security detail typically ensures everyone exits promptly. It’s wise to gather your belongings early, because it can get hectic. Nearby taxis wait on Lake Terrace, and the late buses are long gone, so a quick call into Taupō Taxis before close may get you home. Many bars in NZ also stop serving liquor 30 minutes before closing. After exiting, be mindful of neighbours – Taupō’s town centre can be surprisingly quiet at 3 AM.
