About 107 Newton St
107 Newton Street in Mount Maunganui is home to The Rising Tide – a flagship brewery taproom and bar by Mount Brewing Co. It’s a family-run craft beer venue established by Glenn and Virginia Meikle who started brewing locally in 1996 (sunlive.co.nz )- one of the first in Tauranga’s modern craft beer scene (paekoroki.tauranga.govt.nz ). In 2016 the site underwent a major overhaul, knocking down the old Brewers Bar interior to create a large open-plan brewhouse-and-eatery (sunlive.co.nz ) (sunlive.co.nz ). Signature features include on-site fermenters visible to guests (craft beer on the bar “24 taps” when busy), an adjoining Johney’s Dumpling House kitchen, and a spacious deck with views over the neighbourhood green space. The industrial-chic building is built for beer lovers: it even has rooftop solar panels to power the brewery (sunlive.co.nz ). Locals know 107 Newton St as a friendly, anchor venue for Mt Maunganui’s social scene – part restaurant, part working brewery and part live-music hub – making it a standout community gathering spot.
Events and Programming
The Rising Tide hosts regular live entertainment, especially on weekends. Expect live bands or solo artists on Saturday nights (often roots/reggae, rock or acoustic sets) and relaxed afternoon sessions on Sundays (www.therisingtidemt.com ). During the week there are often musical surprises or special screenings (sports on big screens) with no formal ticket needed. The vibe is low-key: many gigs are free entry or covered by cover charges under $20. Special events have included regional band showcases and occasional brewery launch parties. The venue also runs daily promotions – for example, joint beer-and-food deals on Mondays and Thursdays – and weekday happy-hour specials (www.therisingtidemt.com ) (www.therisingtidemt.com ). These “What’s On” deals (like $15 beer-and-dumpling combos or $16 beer-and-burger combos) make weekday nights as busy as weekends. For the latest schedule of gigs, support acts, jam nights or seasonal parties, the venue posts updates on its channels and local gig guides; big shows can sell out, so arrive early or check refs for announcements.
Tickets and Booking
Most events at 107 Newton St are ticketless or use simple booking by phone/social, since it’s primarily a bar. Smaller live sessions are usually open-door (just pay at the bar). For larger concerts or special events, limited advance tickets might be available through local ticket outlets or the venue’s announcements. Typically there is no box office on site – check the Rising Tide’s contacts or local event listings a few weeks before a show. Prices vary: many nights are free, general admission is modest (often under NZ$20 for bigger acts), and there’s no hard drink minimum beyond any entry fee. The venue takes law-enforced age checks at the gate (18+ after 8pm); for private functions you may pre-book group tables or a “function room”. In short, to attend a show here you usually just turn up, pay a small cover if any, and purchase drinks inside.
Seating and Layout
The Rising Tide is mostly a standing-room venue with a few high tables and stools by the bar and along the walls. It has no formal seated theatre. The main feature area is an open hall with the brewery tanks at one end and the bar at the other. This means everyone has a good view of the stage which is usually near the bar. For a live band, the best spots are close to the front edge of the crowd (near stage monitors) or adjacent to the bar to feel the music and see musicians up close. The wide deck out back (facing the park) also serves as a viewing space when weather allows. The acoustics are lively – you’ll hear the music clearly but it can be loud, so bring ear protection if sensitive. Avoid standing directly in front of the speakers (usually against a front wall) or too close behind the bar stools where sightlines narrow. Overall it’s unreserved, festival-style seating: friends often claim space together at tables or on the deck early. Staff will guide you to any high-top or bar seating if you want to sit during the show (often by the mezzanine).
Getting There and Parking
107 Newton Street sits just off State Highway 2 in Mount Maunganui, a short drive north of downtown Tauranga. If driving, take the Takitimu Drive exit towards Mt Maunganui and head toward Pilot Bay; Newton Street is near the northern end of the peninsula. The venue has a sizeable private parking lot at the rear (up to about 50 spots) free for customers, but it can fill on busy nights. Street parking is also available along Newton Street and nearby roads (Takitimu Drive, Church Street) – be mindful of 2-hour limits. Public transit options include regional buses that stop a few blocks away on Marine Parade (the SH2 corridor) and the local Bayhopper routes on Maunganui Road; from the ferry terminal or downtown it’s a short walk or a couple-minute taxi ride. Rideshares and taxis can drop off by the main entrance (and pick up after events). If coming from Tauranga or further afield, the nearest major transport hub is Tauranga City bus terminal (Devonport Road) – from there it’s about a 10-minute drive to Newton Street. Overall, driving or ride-hailing is often easiest for late-night shows, as buses end service in the evening.
Inside the Venue
Walking into The Rising Tide, expect a casual brewpub atmosphere. There’s one main entrance with a host stand – staff will check IDs (under NZ liquor laws) at the door for under-30s. The broad interior has high exposed-beam ceilings and natural light by day. To your right is a large bar counter serving 26-32 local craft taps (mostly Mount Brewing and rotating guest beers) and an array of wines and spirits. Toward the back, one side opens to an indoor kitchen (home to Johney’s famous dumplings and burgers) and a games area with foosball. The centremost space is kept open for mingling and dancing during shows. Off to the side you’ll find a small merch fridge and some casual lounge seating. The polished concrete floors mean it’s easy to navigate, and the venue feels airy even when it’s full. (sunlive.co.nz ).
Food and drink options are a highlight: aside from dumplings and pizzas, tavern classics (burgers, fries, pork buns etc.) are popular – pairing with the local craft beers is part of the draw. A kids’ playground sits just outside the pit area, so families often hang out on the outside deck (with a picnic vibe). Inside, restrooms are down a short corridor – one is wheelchair-accessible and both have baby-change facilities. There’s free Wi-Fi and mobile reception is good. The dress code is 100% casual – jeans, skirts, sundresses all fine. The vibe is relaxed (although lively when a band is on), with friendly bartenders. Coat-check isn’t provided (coat hooks by the entrance, or keep belongings on you). ATMs aren’t inside, but one is literally next door at the Four Square corner store. Note the venue is smoke-free indoor (smoking only in designated outdoor courtyard). Photo-snapping with phones is fine (plenty of selfie ops by the giant mural), but professional cameras with flash should be checked with staff first.
Nearby Amenities
Just beyond the venue, McLaren Park (a grassy reserve) is a short walk – handy for a pre-show picnic or kids playing. Newton Street itself has a supermarket (Four Square) and a bottle store for any last-minute snacks or drinks. A few minutes’ stroll brings you to the heart of Mount Maunganui village: restaurants like Palate (upmarket dining) and Versatile (global cuisine) line Pilot Bay Road, and classic bars like 2 Pin (Live music pub) and Torvos (espresso + craft beer) are nearby. The Strand waterfront (with beachfront cafés) and Motel strip are a 10-minute walk from 107 Newton. For accommodation, Mount Maunganui offers many motels, B&Bs and holiday parks within walking distance or a short drive – ideal for visiting artists or festival-goers. After shows, late-night eats like pizza or cheese toasties are often picked up at the Four Square, and taxis/Ubers can be flagged on Scriptures or nearby state highways. The local taxi rank is in town center (Marine Parade) but drivers will come out for pickups after 10pm; just allow a few extra minutes.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Rising Tide stands out thanks to its combination of brewery, bar and community space all in one. It’s the place you can literally watch your beer being brewed – large copper fermenters and shiny tanks are right inside, partly behind glass yet fully audible as they bubble away (sunlive.co.nz ). This open-brewery design (installed in 2016) not only looks impressive but honors the founders’ craft heritage: Mount Brewing Co is Tauranga’s second-generation brewery, and they treat the bar as a living workshop where patrons can interact with the brewers. As Glenn Meikle explained, “we are bringing the core of our business centre stage” (sunlive.co.nz ) so customers can taste fresh brews straight off the tank.
The fusion menu is another draw – Johney’s hand-made Kiwi dumplings and baos, paired with hoppy ales, give the Rising Tide an edge on food-and-drink pairing that’s very “Mount Maunganui”: adventurous and fun. Environmentally, it’s notable too – all of its roof is covered in solar panels, cutting power costs and reflecting the owners’ sustainability focus (sunlive.co.nz ). Over the years it has hosted Kiwi festival acts (past performers include reggae bands like Katchafire, showing its grassroots vibe) and become a badge of local pride. The venue’s design blends reclaimed wood and vintage beer-brewery fixtures, creating a warm, industrial-chic feel. All in all, 107 Newton St is more than a pub – it’s a cultural hub that captures the Bay of Plenty’s laid-back lifestyle, from surfboard culture to iwi tradition (the large carved “Patu-One” warrior statue outside on the corner is an homage to Māori history), making it both a destination and an institution beloved by locals and touring musicians alike (sunlive.co.nz ) (sunlive.co.nz ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Plan to arrive a bit early on event nights – by 7–8pm on weekends the place can be quite full. Weekday afternoons (3pm–6pm happy hours) and early evenings are usually quieter. Bring a valid photo ID for every member of your party, as the bar checks licenses for anyone who looks under 30. The Rising Tide is 18+ after 8pm due to liquor laws, but kids are welcome with parents before evening (and often enjoy the outdoor play area). Never leave valuables unattended. If sensitive to noise, consider earplugs during live sets. Dress is casual (T-cuts, jeans, summer dresses, etc.), but layers are smart – the open-plan hall can feel cool even on summer evenings. Check the weather if planning to linger on the outdoor deck – it’s pleasant in summer but can be chilly or rainy in winter (they have heaters, though). There’s free drinking water available at the bar; last buses to Tauranga end before 11pm or midnight on weekends, so arrange your trip home in advance (Uber or taxi works well late-night). If booking for a party, the venue takes larger reservations (20+ people) via email and has a “functions” guide. Finally, tip well if you like the experience – this small team prides itself on NZ hospitality. Avoid common mistakes like expecting a formal performance venue; this is a casual pub environment. Cash is accepted, but card (Visa/Mastercard) is easier; however the bar is cash-free after 10pm. Don’t worry about reheating food – Johney’s does timed batches. Help keep it unique by recycling your bottles and cans in the bins provided (they encourage green habits). Above all, come for the beer and stay for the vibes – the whole guesthouse, open-kitchen, brewery scene is what makes the visit memorable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a parking lot at 107 Newton St and is it free?
Yes. The Rising Tide has its own customer car park behind the building (about 40–50 spots) which is free for patrons. If that fills up, street parking is available along Newton Street and the adjacent side streets (mostly free after hours). Always check for any parking restrictions, especially on weekdays.
What public transport or bus routes go to 107 Newton St?
Local BayBus routes servicing Mount Maunganui run along Maunganui Road and Takitimu Drive nearby. You can take a city bus from downtown Tauranga to Mount, then walk a few blocks to Newton Street. There isn’t a dedicated bus stop right at number 107, but stops on Pilot Bay Road or Marine Parade (about a 5-minute walk) work well. Alternatively, InterCity coaches from other cities stop at Bayfair or Tauranga, from where you can taxi or bus to Mount. Taxis and rideshares (Uber/Ola) can also drop you off right at the entrance.
Do I need to buy a ticket in advance or can I pay at the door for shows?
Most of the Rising Tide’s regular live music events are free or only have a small cover charge at the door, so you don’t usually need advance tickets. For bigger concerts or special birthday/charity events, tickets might be sold in advance through local outlets or online. The venue doesn’t have a traditional box office, so the norm is to either book early via event pages or simply show up early and pay upon entry. Check the venue’s announcements or local event guides for any ticketed nights.
What is the best place to sit or stand for a live performance?
The Rising Tide is mostly open-plan, so there is no assigned seating. The best spots are close to the stage (usually at the front of the standing area) for a full view of the band. If you prefer sitting, grab a high-top table on the sides or the bar stools facing the stage early. The outdoor deck can also be a pleasant vantage if the weather’s fine (though sound is slightly more distant). Avoid standing directly against the front wall (speakers) where it might be too loud, unless you have ear protection.
Is the venue wheelchair-accessible?
Yes, the Rising Tide’s ground floor is accessible. There is ramp access at the main entrance and the interior is on one level (no stairs to the bar or performance area). The restrooms include a disabled-access cubicle. However, the side deck area has a small lip, so wheelchair users should let staff assist if needed. If you need special accommodations, it’s best to call ahead so they can help you settle in.
Can children come to events at 107 Newton St?
Yes, children are welcome during daytime and early evening hours, especially because there’s a playground outside. Until around 8pm (when entering the licensed area), minors must be accompanied by a guardian at all times. After 8pm the venue becomes 18+ only. Always bring an ID for older teens. Many parents drop in earlier on weekends for the food and atmosphere, then depart before it gets too crowded or late.
What items are not allowed inside the venue?
Common sense applies: no outside alcohol or large coolers, no illegal drugs, and no large weapons (even ceremonial). The security will check bags for standard safety. Photography with personal cameras or phones is fine (plenty of selfies happen), but professional video cameras might need permission. Vape devices are usually not allowed indoors (smoking leases only to the courtyard). Service animals are welcome, but pets are not. Food can be brought only for verified medical or infant needs.
What kind of food and drink is available at the venue?
A full bar serves 20+ taps of Mount Brewing Co craft beers, plus wine, cider and spirits. Food-wise, the venue’s on-site kitchen (Johney’s Dumpling House) offers made-to-order dumplings, baos and fusion dishes. There’s also a standard pub menu (burgers, fries, pizza, pork buns, etc.) designed to pair with the beer. Vegetarian and gluten-free options exist (e.g. veggie dumplings, gluten-free buns). Menus can vary, but there’s always substantial casual fare plus daily specials like the “$16 beer & burger.”
Is there free Wi-Fi or charging outlets inside?
Yes. The venue offers free Wi-Fi for customers; ask staff for the password if needed (usually posted). There are some USB and electric outlets along the walls and at the bar, although they can be in use by staff. It’s easy to stay connected – the local NZ cellphone networks have good coverage inside, too.
Does the venue have coat check or lockers?
No formal coat check is provided. Space is limited, but there are a few coat hooks by the entrance and behind the bar. Guests usually keep personal items at their table or carry them. It’s not common to leave belongings unattended – either hold onto them or ask a friend to watch while you’re dancing. Wallets and phones are safe if kept in visible sight or zipped jackets.
Are pets allowed inside The Rising Tide?
No, pets other than accredited service animals are not permitted inside due to food safety regulations. The exception is for guide dogs or assistance animals. If you bring a pet, you should keep it in a secure carrier or leave it secured in your vehicle while you visit. The patio area is outdoor-only for humans and dogs alike.
Is this venue good for a private event or party rent?
Yes. The Rising Tide offers private bookings and function packages for NZ gatherings – big tables or even a section hire. They cater to groups (over 20 people) with shared dumpling feasts or tapas-style menus (www.therisingtidemt.com ). Contact the venue in advance; they can tailor a beer tasting or dinner package. However, it’s primarily a public bar, so full closure to outside guests is rare – most private events happen during off-peak weekdays or in a cordoned area.
What are the operating hours at 107 Newton St?
Typically the Rising Tide is open daily from late morning through late evening. In summer months they operate roughly 11am to 10pm (as per their “summer hours”), and in off-season often remain open until at least 9pm. It’s a seven-day-a-week venue (hours can extend during weekends or events). If in doubt, a quick call or check the venue’s page will confirm today’s closing time.
How can I find out about upcoming live shows at The Rising Tide?
The best way is to follow the venue on social media or check local “what’s on” websites. The Rising Tide posts its event lineup on its official page and Facebook. You’ll also find info on local gig guides. Another option is to sign up for email newsletters or text updates if available. Because scheduling can change (bands, festivals, etc.), checking closer to the date is wise. Many shows are advertised on community boards around Tauranga, too.
What is the capacity of the venue?
Official numbers aren’t frequently published, but the public bar area with standing room can hold roughly 200–300 people comfortably (between inside and the outdoor deck). It’s considered a mid-sized venue – bigger than a small pub but much smaller than an arena. Because of its open layout, exact capacity depends on furniture setup. For reference, past event listings often mark it as “under 300 seats” or general admission.
