About The Cargo Shed
The Cargo Shed (Māori: Te Whare Utanga ) is a historic waterfront venue in central Tauranga, overlooking the harbour. Originally built in 1927 as Tauranga’s Railway Wharf “No. 1 Cargo Shed” for handling goods, it is one of the last remaining wharf-timber buildings on the city’s waterfront (www.footprintsontepapa.nz ) (taurangahistorical.blogspot.com ). The name “Te Whare Utanga” literally means “cargo house,” reflecting its port heritage. Over its long history it was a bustling hub of maritime trade – for nearly 40 years the site was the “very busy hub” of Tauranga’s shipping and remains a rare relic of the old waterfront (taurangahistorical.blogspot.com ) (www.footprintsontepapa.nz ).
Today the shed has been carefully refurbished as a modern events venue. It retains its industrial character – the exposed wooden beams, high ceiling and sliding doors are intact – while adding up-to-date amenities. The space holds up to about 250 people in theatre-style seating (around 200 for seated dinners) (www.bayofplentynz.com ) (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). It offers built-in stage lighting and sound systems, a small elevated stage, and even a commercial kitchen, making it suitable for everything from conferences and weddings to public markets and exhibitions (www.tauranga.govt.nz ) (creativebop.org.nz ). As Tauranga City Council describes it, The Cargo Shed provides “the perfect backdrop” for events, combining “the charm of yesteryears with the functionality of a modern event space” (www.baycourt.co.nz ).
Events and Programming
The Cargo Shed hosts a wide variety of events. Its versatile open-plan layout makes it ideal for corporate functions, networking expos, trade shows and business meetings, but it’s equally popular for creative and community events. Typical programming includes fairs and markets (artisan markets, book fairs, zine festivals, etc.), cultural exhibitions, craft workshops, fitness or dance classes, and film screenings. It is also available for private events such as weddings, parties or university balls. Arts organisations sometimes use it for festival events – for example, the Tauranga Arts Festival regularly stages gatherings like the annual Tauranga Zinefest there. Local music events and dance parties often fill the shed with live DJs and bands, ranging from community festivals to after-hours club nights. In short, expect anything from gospel tours and jazz ensembles to indie bands and hip-hop acts performing here – while some events are small or free community gatherings, others sell tickets.
Ticket prices vary widely depending on the event. Smaller community markets or arts workshops might be free or under a modest door charge (often $5–$20), while ticketed concerts or festivals typically range from about $20 up to $60–$70. Large one-off acts or big annual events (if any) could go higher, though there is no set venue policy on pricing. Many visitors report paying around $25–$40 for concerts and $10–$30 for mid-sized shows. It’s best to check the event’s listing and book early for popular shows; for smaller events or on days with multiple markets, tickets are sometimes sold at the door if not sold out.
Tickets and Booking
There is no physical box-office at The Cargo Shed itself. For ticketed events, purchase is typically through the event organizer or online ticketing services. Many promoters sell Cargo Shed event tickets via platforms like Eventfinda, Eventbrite or Ticketmaster, or on their own websites. If Baycourt Theatre (the city arts centre) is sponsoring or co-promoting the event, their box office or website may offer tickets as well.
For large or high-demand events, it’s wise to buy as soon as tickets go on sale; some shows may sell out. Check Tauranga City Council’s events guide or arts festival schedules for Cargo Shed bookings. You can often find upcoming shows listed on Tauranga events calendars or local ticket sites by searching “The Cargo Shed, Tauranga”. Some events do allow door sales (especially markets or community gatherings), but popular concerts or festivals usually recommend advance online purchase.
Seating and Layout
The Cargo Shed is essentially one big open hall. At one end there is a small raised stage area; the rest is flat floor space. There are no fixed seats or balconies – seating, if any, is set up per event. For theatre-style presentations, chairs can be arranged for up to ~250 people (www.bayofplentynz.com ) (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). For banquets or round-table dinners, about 200 people can be seated comfortably (www.bayofplentynz.com ). Many music or dance events are general-admission: guests stand or sit wherever they like on the floor. In that case, the best viewing spots tend to be centrally located in front of the stage, just a few metres back. Corners or aisles can sometimes get a bit edge-of-room: unless you want wall better view, aim to stand centre floor.
Acoustically, the shed has an industrial feel – the wood and metal surfaces give it a lively reverb. Concert audio rigging (speakers and mixers) is usually provided by the event. While the in-house PA and lights are decent for midsize shows (www.tauranga.govt.nz ) (creativebop.org.nz ), very large or loud concerts might use additional speaker stacks brought in by the promoter. Keep in mind that with high ceilings and open space, sound can be punchy; many locals recommend ear plugs for very loud shows.
If reserved seating or VIP sections are offered at a specific event, they will be defined by the event organizers. Otherwise, all floor spaces are open. There are no balconies or upper levels to access – you and your seat (if there is one) will be on the main floor. Because of the open layout, sightlines are generally good from anywhere on the floor, but if you want an unobstructed center view, stand or sit near the middle of the room facing the stage. The occasional support post is at the back end of the hall, which could slightly block edge views, so avoid lining up directly behind those for intimate seating. In summary, front-and-center is prime real estate for performances, while the rear corners are more for holding areas or ambient fans.
Getting There and Parking
The Cargo Shed is located at 5 Dive Crescent, Tauranga , right on the inner harbour waterfront in the city centre. It sits between Dive Crescent and Totara Street, near the base of the Tauranga Bridge. This central location is just a few minutes’ drive from the heart of town (Devonport/Dixon/Second Avenue area) and is easily spotted thanks to its large corrugated-steel facade and signage. For navigation, entering “Cargo Shed Tauranga” or “5 Dive Crescent” into maps will bring you right to the venue.
Car Parking: A big advantage of this venue is the nearby off-street Dive Crescent car park, which has well over 100 spaces. This Council-owned lot was recently upgraded and is immediately adjacent to the shed. Parking is metered ($3.50 per hour, capped at $8 per day, 8 am–5 pm weekdays) and free after 5 pm on weekdays and all day on weekends (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). That means if your event runs in the evening or on a weekend, parking can be free. (On weekdays if you arrive early, you’ll pay up to the $8 daily maximum.) Street parking in surrounding side roads is more limited, so the Dive Crescent car park is the main recommended lot. There is no valet service or official reserved section for Cargo Shed – it’s first-come, first-served, so arriving a bit early helps.
Public Transit: Local buses serviced by Bay of Plenty Regional Council stop a short walk away. NZ Bus routes 2 (Papamoa via Bayfair and Tauranga) and 5 (Mt. Maunganui via Bayfair and Tauranga) have a “Dive Crescent – The Cargo Shed” stop right on Dive Crescent. (For example, buses from Papamoa or Mount run through Tauranga City, stopping by the harbour; check the NZBus timetable for routes 2 and 5 and look for the Dive Crescent/Cargo Shed stop.) Perhaps more conveniently, InterCity coaches from other cities (e.g. Auckland, Hamilton, Rotorua) actually use this location as Tauranga’s stop (www.intercity.co.nz ). All daily InterCity buses travel to or from 5 Dive Crescent, directly outside The Cargo Shed, making it the de facto bus terminal stop for Tauranga (www.intercity.co.nz ). If you are arriving by coach or planning to depart by bus, that stop is literally at the cargo shed’s front door.
Taxi and Rideshare: Taxis and ride-share services (Uber, Ola, etc.) are readily available in Tauranga. They can drop off and pick up at Dive Crescent just outside the main entrance. A small taxi rank/layby is nearby on Dive Crescent as well. If you’re driving yourself, be aware that Dive Crescent can be narrow in places when lined with cars – watch out for cyclists and pedestrians. Cyclists: there are bike racks near Baycourt if you prefer two wheels.
For visitors from Tauranga Airport (just 8 km away) or from Mount Maunganui (7 km away), driving or taxi/Uber is straightforward via SH2. The airport shuttle and buses go to downtown Tauranga – the closest major stop is Devonport Road (Stop 2 on Willow St) which is a 5-minute walk or couple of minutes by taxi to the shed.
Inside the Venue
When you enter The Cargo Shed for an event, you’ll typically check in at a ground-level foyer or entrance door on Dive Crescent. Staff or volunteers may scan your e-ticket and verify IDs if the event is restricted (some concerts or late-night events are 18+). Security is usually minimal – it’s a relatively low-capacity space – but expect bag checks similar to other event venues (no glass bottles or weapons).
The interior feels like a re-purposed warehouse. The floor is polished concrete or timber, and the walls are high corrugated steel or timber paneling. A fixed stage (approximately 3–4 m deep) sits at one end of the hall with built-in stage lights above. The other side of the room has large sliding cargo doors (often closed for events), and along the exterior wall there is a covered wooden-colonnade porch (the old cargo loading area, still intact). As a result, it sometimes even looks like part of the building opens up to the street if those doors slide open – an interesting dynamic for event flow. Overhead are exposed rafters and trusses, and the ceiling is well above head height, giving a lofty, open feel. The venue is fully roofed so events go on rain or shine, with no weather delays.
Box Office and Check-in: There is no permanent box-office window inside. Tickets are managed by the event staff or by an organizer behind a table near the entrance. Be ready to show your digital or printed ticket and ID as needed. Coat-check is not a formal service; for bigger events you might see volunteers taking coat or bag, but at most you will simply leave these near the door or under your seat. Purses, small bags and water bottles are fine; just avoid bringing oversized luggage or anything prohibited by the specific event (e.g. professional cameras, pets, etc.).
Food and Drink: There is no permanent bar or café on site. However, Tauranga Council equipped the shed with a small commercial kitchen during renovations (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). This means that catered events (festivals, corporate functions or weddings) can easily set up food or drink stations. Many organizers do this – for example, wedding receptions will have caterers preparing meals inside. Some public events and markets bring in local food trucks or pop-up carts to park outside in the Dive Cres yards; check the event info to see if food vendors will be present. If you arrive hungry, plan to eat beforehand or look for a nearby cafe, since there is no fixed concession stand.
Regarding alcohol: by default, The Cargo Shed itself holds no liquor licence . In practice this means that for events to serve alcohol, the organizer must hire a licensed caterer or apply for a special license (creativebop.org.nz ). In non-licensed events (and some alcohol-free functions), attendees typically must refrain from BYO liquor; security may not allow glass bottles or hard liquor inside. If you need a drink, see if the event description mentions a bar or licensed service. Otherwise, soft drinks and water can often be bought from event staff, or you can bring a sealed water bottle. (Special note: there is a small “bar” at Hide Thirst and Hunger pub just across the road if you need a drink before/after.)
Facilities: Restrooms are available on-site. Tauranga City Council’s 2018 upgrade included renovating the bathrooms (www.tauranga.govt.nz ), so expect clean and modern toilet and hand-washing facilities (including at least one accessible restroom). While the main event area is one large hall, there is also a small foyer or greenroom used for preparation and load-in. There is no official Wi-Fi network for guests; mobile phone coverage (Spark, Vodafone, 2degrees) works fairly well inside. Power outlets are limited to backstage or corner areas, so cell charging is best done beforehand. Some events provide a merchants area or merch table – again, that’s event-specific.
Atmosphere: Before a show, the hall usually holds only event crew and a few early birds, so the vibe is quiet and somewhat hushed, reflecting on its history. As doors open (usually 30–60 minutes before start), the mood becomes casual and expectant. During performances or DJs, the lights are often dimmed or colored and the whole space becomes an atmospheric social club. Between acts or at markets, the overhead lights may come up in a bright industrial style. Music and conversations can echo a bit due to the high ceiling, so it never feels stuffy or claustrophobic. Overall you can expect a relaxed, friendly environment – locals often say The Cargo Shed has a community feel, like attending a large backyard party in an old warehouse.
Nearby Amenities
The Cargo Shed sits in a lively part of downtown Tauranga with many amenities within easy reach. For pre-show dining or post-show drinks, you have plenty of options. Directly across the street on Devonport Road (about a 2-minute walk), the Baycourt Arts Centre precinct has a few eateries: for example, the popular Salva D’Oro Italian restaurant is just a block away (great pizzas and pasta) and a craft pub called Hide Thirst & Hunger serves seafood and drinks. Within a further 5–10 minute walk, you can find numerous cafes, bars and restaurants along The Strand waterfront and Cameron Rd. Notable spots include the upscale Harbour City Grill or The Bistro at Trinity Wharf (on the harbour) and casual pubs like The Golden Sands. Tauranga’s CBD (within a 10-minute walk) has fast-food, sushi, Thai, and Indian restaurants. If you crave a quick bite, the area also sees food trucks parking nearby during events (look for them in the Dive Cres carpark).
Bars and Nightlife: For a nightcap, a short stroll brings you to several bars. On nearby Wharf St/McLean Ave are a couple of craft breweries and cocktail lounges (e.g. Bridge Brew). The pub scene on Devonport Rd has plenty of options too. Note that outside signage is sparse at night, so it helps to remember landmarks: you’ll see the Baycourt clocktower, the old grain silo, or the lift shaft of The Depot apartment block across the road. If you plan on drinking, note that parking is free after 5 pm (www.tauranga.govt.nz ), which is handy, and there are streetcar and Uber drivers regularly in downtown Tauranga.
Hotels: Several hotel and motel options are near by. The city centre offers boutique stays like the Trinity Wharf Hotel (on the waterfront, 600 m away) or chain hotels on Cameron Road (The Ibis, O’Returns, etc.) Budget motels like Harbour City Backpackers/Strand Motel are 5–8 minutes walk. If you prefer inns or B&Bs, Devonport Road has a few nice chalets. Bookings in advance are recommended if there’s a major event in town (the waterfront area does get busy over summer).
Other Tips: If you arrive early (especially on weekends), you could stroll along the Harbour walkway right outside the venue – it’s a pleasant promenade along the water. There are also public bike racks on Dock Street just across The Strand. For late-night travel home, Tauranga has local taxi services and Uber. The main taxi stand is on Wharf Street (near Pak’nSave), a 10-minute walk away; however Ubers will pick up by Dive Crescent itself.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Cargo Shed’s character stands out in Tauranga’s event scene. Architecturally, it’s the only substantial relic of the early 20th -century port remaining downtown (taurangahistorical.blogspot.com ). That history gives the place a unique atmosphere – guests often comment on the creaking floorboards, heavy timber doors and ocean harbor views that you won’t find in newer halls. The venue’s exterior (giant pale-green metal walls) is iconic in the city centre, and its long narrow shape with peaked roof evokes a link to Tauranga’s seafaring past. Even subtle details testify to its roots: the western verandah and loading bays still allow loading “in all seasons” under cover (www.footprintsontepapa.nz ).
Culturally, The Cargo Shed bridges old and new. It carries a Māori name and is co-owned by the Ōtamataha Trust (Ngāti Tapu) and Tauranga City Council (www.footprintsontepapa.nz ), honoring local iwi connection to the land. Many community events here celebrate local arts or heritage – for example, art exhibitions often feature Māori artists or Tangata Whenua themes. It's also a gathering place where Tauranga’s younger crowd mixers with heritage, giving a creative edge to events. Artists love it because the industrial canvas lets them project with video maps or set design without ruining delicate walls; audiences appreciate the informal vibe (no too-far distance from performers).
Many legendary local moments have happened here. For years the popular Tauranga Arts Market brought hundreds of makers every weekend, making The Cargo Shed a creative hotspot – some locals still talk about finding rare crafts or art at those market stalls. In theatre circles, travelling Shakespeare or Kiwi drama companies often stop in for one-of-a-kind shows. And yet, because it’s smaller scale, an up-and-coming band performing on this stage can feel every bit as grand as on a large stage. That blend of grassroots energy and historic charm is what makes The Cargo Shed beloved by both performers and audiences.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Cargo Shed is mostly wheelchair-accessible. The main entrance is at street level, and the interior floor is smooth. There is a ramp or level doorway (no steps) into the hall. Inside facilities include an accessible restroom (post-renovation improvements confirmed updated bathrooms) (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). However, some surfaces (like the timber porch) can be uneven, so mind your wheels. Hearing loops or steward assistance may not be standard at every event; if you have specific accessibility needs, contact the organizer in advance to arrange any support.
What to Bring: Bring a valid ID if the event is age-restricted (concerts over 18, etc.). A small bag or backpack is usually fine, but oversized luggage might be refused. Carry cash (some food trucks/vendors go cash only) and a fully charged phone. A sweater or jacket is wise – after dark the room can cool down (and in winter it’s an older building so not heavily heated). Earplugs are a good idea for very loud music. If you need allergy medication, carry it; events are often dusty or smoky. For outdoor access moments (some market days open doors), be prepared for brisk harbour breezes or sun. Finally, bring your ticket (paper or digital) and any printout of COVID rules (if still required); though currently there are no special health checkins mandated at this venue beyond any event’s own rules.
What Not to Bring/Do: There have been common questions about BYO alcohol or large coolers. By default, outside alcohol is not permitted unless the event explicitly says otherwise (creativebop.org.nz ). Weapons, fireworks, and pets are also prohibited (aside from service animals). Unlike big clubs, flash photography is usually acceptable at most events (but respect performers’ wishes – if a sign or performer asks no flashes, please comply). Don’t wear loose glitter or confetti if the event doesn’t plan to clean it up (it sticks to wooden floors and can be hard to sweep). As with any event venue, litter and noise rules do apply: keep the aisle clear, dispose of trash in bins, and avoid disruptive behavior. There is a no-smoking law in effect indoors (and actually in NZ all indoor public spaces are smoke-free), so smoking is only allowed well outside the building.
Arrival and Timing: Doors usually open 30–60 minutes before an event’s start time. It’s wise to arrive a bit early to find parking and get settled – especially on busy market days or sold-out shows. The shed gets dark inside with stage lights before a performance, so arriving after dark is fine, but coming too late risks missing part of the show or detail in a talk. If you have general admission tickets, earlier arrival can mean a better spot near the stage. However, if you prefer a seat, you don’t have reserved seats in advance (unless the ticket says so), so the early birds will claim row front – plan according to your preference.
Age Restrictions: Most events at The Cargo Shed are all-ages, but some are 18+ (often evening music or club events). Check the event listing – they will specify age limits. Children must be accompanied by an adult if allowed. No special dress code is enforced by the venue, but if it’s a club night or a formal function, consider dressing neatly. Otherwise, Tauranga’s audience is generally casual. Wear the shoes you can dance or stand in comfortably!
On-site Amenities: There are public restrooms (see staff for directions). There is no coat-room, so you’ll likely keep coats at your chair or along the side. The venue does not have a permanent cloakroom or coat-check service, so if it’s windy or rainy outside, wear layers or umbrella inside. Wi-Fi is not provided by the venue; rely on your mobile dataplan. There is no cloak # outlet area for charging devices other than the occasional wall plugs in corners.
Toilets & Wi-Fi: Females and males restrooms are available near the entrance, recently refitted with fresh amenities. There is no dedicated business or gaming wifi, although Tauranga City does offer free downtown Wi-Fi hotspots; however, coverage can be spotty indoors, so don’t count on fast internet. Gift shops or cafés are also nil – if you need stationery or batteries, stop at any city store en route.
Electrical/AV Needs (for Performers): If you’re an artist or organizer using the space, note that The Cargo Shed has basic audio/lighting gear as provided. There is a small control booth area at the back, but no catwalks – lights need to be rigged on the fixed trusses. There are power outlets backstage but for extensive production you should plan for external power. Because the hall has tall smoothing walls, pin up banners or DIY decor with tape. Treat the structure gently – it’s old and treated as heritage.
What is the capacity of the Cargo Shed?
The indoor capacity is about 250 people in theatre-style seating (rowed chairs) and up to 200 in a banquet layout (www.bayofplentynz.com ) (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). Because it’s one open hall, capacity can vary by how seating is arranged or how many stand. Events should never exceed ~250 total.
How do I get tickets for events at the Cargo Shed?
Tickets are typically sold online or through the event organizer. Many events use sites like Eventfinda or Ticketmaster, or the Tauranga Arts Festival site if it’s a festival event. There is no dedicated box office at the Cargo Shed itself. If Baycourt Arts Theatre is involved, you can also purchase from Baycourt’s box office. Always check the official event page for ticket links, and try to buy in advance as shows can sell out.
Where should I park when attending the Cargo Shed?
The best option is the Dive Crescent off-street car park right beside the venue (over 100 spaces). It costs $3.50 per hour (up to $8 per day) on weekdays between 8 am–5 pm, and then it’s free after 5 pm and all weekend (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). On-street parking nearby is very limited. So plan to use the Dive Crescent or city centre car parks and walk a few minutes.
What public transportation serves the Cargo Shed?
Local buses (Bay of Plenty Regional Council routes 2 and 5) stop near Dive Crescent by the harbour, within a short walk of the venue. These cover Tauranga city and Mount Maunganui via Bayfair shopping centre. Importantly, all InterCity coaches between Tauranga and other cities (Auckland, Hamilton, Rotorua, etc.) drop passengers right at 5 Dive Crescent outside The Cargo Shed (www.intercity.co.nz ). So if you’re coming by long-distance bus, you’ll literally arrive at the venue. Rideshares and taxis can also drop off on Dive Crescent.
Are there any accessible features at the venue?
Yes, the Cargo Shed is wheelchair-friendly. The main entrance has level or ramp access from Dive Crescent and the main hall is on one level with flat flooring. There is at least one accessible restroom as part of the 2018 renovation (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). Events are responsible for any additional ADA services (such as hearing loops); if you need assistance, check with the organizer beforehand.
Can I bring my own food or drinks into the Cargo Shed?
Outside food (snacks, picnic items, etc.) is generally allowed, though there’s no onsite kitchen open to the public. Outside alcohol is typically not allowed unless the event has arranged a license. The venue itself has no liquor license (creativebop.org.nz ), so if you want to drink alcohol, look for a licensed bar or catering service at the event. You are free to bring water or soft drinks. Some organizers do provide food carts or food trucks on-site for events.
Is the Cargo Shed indoors? What about weather?
The Cargo Shed is an enclosed indoor venue with a solid roof and walls, so events go on come rain or shine. In bad weather, the doors stay shut and the event continues unaffected. There is no outdoor amphitheatre portion – everything happens inside the hall. However, because it’s an older building, it may be a bit chilly indoors in winter and somewhat warm in summer. Dress accordingly (layers are recommended for comfort).
What time do doors open before a show?
Typically, doors open around 30–60 minutes before the advertised event start time. Promoters often announce that “doors open 45 minutes before showtime,” but this can vary. It’s best to check the specific event ticket or listing. For very large or sold-out events, arriving early is wise to allow time for parking and entry. If you do arrive early and staff aren’t ready to check tickets, just wait in the lobby or queue area until doors officially open.
What is the seating arrangement like?
Seating (if provided) is arranged by the event promoter. For seated events, chairs can be set auditorium- or banquet-style with up to ~200–250 seats in total (www.bayofplentynz.com ) (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). Many concerts or festivals are general admission, meaning standing room on the open floor. There are no fixed seats or rows built into the structure. If it’s a show with table seating (like a dinner or gala), you’ll have a table and chairs. Otherwise assume you’ll stand or sit on provided chairs anywhere on the floor. For best views, try to stand or sit near the center of the hall, facing the stage.
Is there a dress code at the Cargo Shed?
Generally no formal dress code is enforced by the venue – casual attire is fine for most events (jeans, t-shirts, etc.). Of course certain events may have their own theme or suggest dressing up (for example, a gala or themed party might specify attire). If you’re attending a music concert or market, casual wear and comfortable shoes are recommended. For corporate events or weddings held there, emcee announcements or tickets will note if business attire is expected. In short, dress comfortably and check the event description if you’re uncertain.
Is The Cargo Shed family-friendly?
Most Cargo Shed events are open to all ages, making it family-friendly. Children and teens are welcome if they are accompanied by adults. However, some nighttime events or concerts may be restricted (e.g. R16 or R18) – always check the event listing for age limits. There are no playgrounds or kid-specific facilities on site, so families often bring quiet activities for children during shows if needed. Since there is no on-site bar, it can be easier to manage families than in a pub setting. Some events (like family craft fairs or daytime workshops) are explicitly aimed at kids, which can be fun for all ages.
Are cameras and recordings allowed?
For most public events you can use a small point-and-shoot camera or smartphone to take photos for personal use. Flash photos might be discouraged during performances, so be considerate. Professional cameras or video equipment (with large lenses/tripods) usually require permission from the event organizer or the artist. Some concerts are entirely camera-free, while art exhibitions often encourage photography of the artwork. In short, if it’s a personal or amateur camera, it’s usually fine – but if in doubt, check with event staff.
