Events at Havana eatery and nightlife, Tauranga

Name: Havana eatery and nightlife
Address: New Zealand

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ASHEZ National Tour - Tauranga

11:30pm, Sat, 14 Nov 2020

Nov

Havana eatery and nightlife

Tauranga

About Havana Eatery and Nightlife

Havana Eatery and Nightlife is a Cuban-inspired restaurant and nightclub located on Hamilton Street in Tauranga’s city-centre www.ticketfairy.com. It combines a Caribbean-style eatery with a late-night dance venue, making it a one-of-a-kind entertainment spot for the Bay of Plenty. The venue opened in the late 2010s, revitalizing an old nightclub location, and it quickly became known for its tropical, bohemian flair and energetic atmosphere www.ticketfairy.com . From the outside, the entrance is modest, but stepping inside feels like entering a mini-Havana: the décor features colorful lighting, warm wood tones, vintage Cuban posters, neon palm trees and other Latin touches that set the mood for a party www.ticketfairy.com www.ticketfairy.com. The space is intimate-to-medium in size – able to hold a few hundred people at once – so the crowd feels lively but not overwhelmingly vast. In its role as an *eatery*, Havana Bohemian Eatery serves a Caribbean-influenced menu (think spicy jerk dishes, tropical salads and rum-based cocktails) that reflects its Cuban theme . As the evening wears on, the venue smoothly transitions into *nightlife* mode. By late night the tables are cleared away for dancing, the DJ booth is lit and the party vibe takes over. This dual identity – as both a laid-back Latin-themed restaurant and a pulsing nightclub – is what makes Havana special. It offers something different than a typical Kiwi pub or bar. It’s often the go-to spot in Tauranga for people seeking exotic cocktails, Latin rhythms and a lively crowd. Beyond its décor and drinks, Havana matters to the local scene because it brings diversity and energy to Tauranga’s nightlife. It’s one of the few places in town where you can dance to salsa, reggaeton or hip-hop with a tropical twist. Locals appreciate that it has put the city on the map for after-hours entertainment, drawing in crowds from across the Bay of Plenty. Whether you come for dinner or dancing, Havana’s friendly, inclusive vibe and its blend of culture (New Zealand meets Cuban) have made it a beloved part of Tauranga’s music and leisure ecosystem.

Events and Programming

Havana’s calendar is packed with late-night entertainment, especially on weekends. The club typically operates Friday and Saturday nights, with doors opening around 10pm and partying going strong until about 2–3am www.ticketfairy.com. During these prime hours the venue hosts DJs and live music covering a range of styles: expect hip-hop, R&B and Top 40, as well as salsa or Latin beats on selected nights. In fact, themed events are common – past programming has included Latin dance nights, 80s/90s retro parties and special “R&B Flava” nights – so there’s often something novel happening each weekend. Themed weeks or festivals sometimes pop up too; for example, Tauranga has seen events like the local R&B Fest (on the Havana dance floor in 2025) and occasional salsa parties, which draw additional crowds and external promoters. Artists who perform at Havana range from local DJs and cover bands to touring Tusker-level acts. For instance, New Zealand hip-hop act Boy Records played a national tour stop there in early 2021 www.ticketfairy.com. The club also brings in guest DJs from out of town from time to time. Overall, programs vary each season. During summer months the venue may run special promotions or holiday parties, while in winter the focus remains on energetic club nights despite the chill. Regardless of theme, one thing is constant: the music is loud and the dance floor stays packed once midnight hits. If there’s a DJ booth on a night, chances are Havana’s turntable booth will be manned by someone dropping strong beats and partying tunes. Ticket pricing reflects the event: casual Friday/Saturday club nights often have no cover charge early or a modest $10 cover later after midnight www.ticketfairy.com. For big-name acts or special concerts (think multi-DJ lineups or out-of-town bands), organizers typically sell advance tickets online. These ticket tiers might start around NZ$20 for early-bird, rising to $30–$40 closer to the event. Club patrons usually find out about shows via Havana’s social media or local event listings, and for popular events it’s wise to snag advance tickets as soon as they go on sale. For regular weekend parties without specific headliners, many people simply queue up; sometimes cover only applies after a certain time (for example, free entry until 11pm, then a paid cover later). Whichever event you attend, entry is straightforward: show your physical or digital ticket or pay the cover at the door, and then enjoy the night.

Tickets and Booking

There is no dedicated box office at Havana; most tickets for headliner events or special parties are sold online or through promotional outlets. To keep up with ticket releases, check Havana’s official Facebook page or local event listing sites – the club’s promoters announce ticket drop dates and links there. Advance tickets should be purchased in advance (often weeks before a big show), especially for high-demand DJ nights or theme parties. Ticket prices can range from free entry or a small cover cost on a typical club night (often around NZ$10 on busy weekend nights) up to NZ$20–30 for special events featuring well-known artists www.ticketfairy.com. Some events may even have multi-tier pricing (e.g. $20 for the first batch of tickets, $25 for the next, and up to $30–40 at the door). If tickets are available, they might be sold via generic e-ticket platforms or at participating retail outlets; on some nights you can also buy tickets at the door on a first-come, first-served basis. Be aware that cash can be handy – some club nights charge cover only in cash, and a few dollars may be needed if a cloakroom service is offered www.ticketfairy.com. For smaller parties or months with lower attendance, Havana often allows walk-in entry without pre-booking, while major concerts may sell out early online. In practice, the best strategy is to arrive early on a busy night or to secure tickets in advance for big-name events. Keeping an eye on the club’s social posts or community pages will let you know exactly when tickets go on sale. In any case, carrying a little extra cash for cover, coat-check or incidentals is wise, but most purchases inside (drinks, food, extras) can be paid by card or phone once you’re in.

Seating and Layout

Havana’s interior is mostly open-plan, built around a central dance floor www.ticketfairy.com. Upon entering, guests step into a bar lounge area that flows directly into the main room. The DJ booth and stage sit at one end of the club, so that from almost anywhere you can see and hear the music acts. There are bar stations for ordering drinks along the sides. Seating is available but intentionally limited – like many nightclubs, Havana encourages standing and dancing. Along the perimeter of the room you’ll find a few high-top tables with bar stools and some cushioned bench seating or couches www.ticketfairy.com. These are handy if you want to catch your breath or chat with friends away from the crowd. Early in the night it’s usually easy to grab one of these seats, but by peak hours they fill up quickly, and many people prefer to stand with a drink or dance on their feet www.ticketfairy.com. Behind the main bar area, Havana often opens a secondary “back bar” lounge on busy nights www.ticketfairy.com. This rear section isn’t a completely separate room, but rather an extension of the club with its own bar counter. It’s slightly quieter and less crowded than the front dance floor, making it a good spot to step aside for conversations or to get a faster drink during peak crowding www.ticketfairy.com. In this back lounge area there may be additional tables or even a small raised platform, but it’s all part of the same venue. The club does not designate specific VIP sections beyond this – seating and standing room is on a first-come basis. In other words, there is no formal reserved seating; any table you find free can be used by whoever occupies it. So, if you plan to sit, arrive early to secure a spot at a bar-table or booth. For viewing the show, positioning depends on your preference. If you want the full club experience – loud sound, the largest crowds, and the best view of the DJ – head as close to the booth and dance floor as you can (the front center area is where the music and lights hit hardest). Just be warned it’s loudest and most energetic there. If you prefer a tamer perspective, try standing or sitting toward the sides or near the back bar. From the edges you can still see the entire room and even get a sense of the whole scene without the pounding bass. The high ceilings and open-sided layout actually help the sound carry evenly, so even if you stand a little back or on the side, you’ll still feel immersed in the music. Do note that the club uses strobe and rapid lighting effects, so if you have light sensitivity keep that in mind; a peripheral spot by the wall can give you a break from the flashing lights.

Getting There and Parking

Havana is situated at 20 Hamilton Street, Tauranga NZ, just one block off The Strand harborside www.ticketfairy.com. Hamilton Street is a short one-way street connecting The Strand to the city’s main grid, so the venue can be easy to miss from the waterfront; look for the entrance on the right-hand side of Hamilton Street as you come off The Strand. By car, you can approach downtown via Cameron Road or Devonport Road. These major roads lead into the city centre; once through, find your way toward The Strand and then turn into Hamilton Street (often via either Harrington Street or Willow Street) www.ticketfairy.com. Be cautious that Hamilton Street itself is narrow, so it’s usually best to loop around via those adjacent streets. Parking in the immediate vicinity is limited – Hamilton Street has only a few curbside spaces. Street parking in the CBD is metered $2/hour (for the first two hours) during daytime hours , but note that on club nights (Friday/Saturday evenings) street parking is free from 5pm onward, and all-day parking lots often become free after around 6pm www.ticketfairy.com. In practice, many visitors find free street parking on nearby side streets after dark. If on-street spots are full (which they often are by 9pm), the closest public parking buildings are just a couple of blocks away. The Spring Street parking garage and the Elizabeth Street parking building both offer 24/7 parking within easy walking distance www.ticketfairy.com. Spring Street parking is typically $2 per hour (capped around $18–$19 per day) , and Elizabeth Street is about $2 per hour (capped at ~$16 per day) . Because parking is free at these lots after early evening, you can often get a spot there without charge if you’re arriving late. When parking, double-check posted signs – many city lots or streets open up free on weekends and evenings, but some fees still apply if you come too early. Public transport is also an option. Tauranga’s local buses (operated by Baybus/Bayhopper) run through the city centre until late evening. During the day and early evening you could take a bus toward the city and get off at the main Willow Street stop near The Strand, which is about a 5–10 minute walk from Havana www.ticketfairy.com www.ticketfairy.com. However, note that buses do not run in the very late night after the club closes – so if you plan to stay until 2–3am you will need to rely on taxis or rideshare (Uber/Ola). For the journey home, remember that taxis often line up near the central city (usually near Devonport Road/The Strand) at closing time. If catching an Uber or Ola, confirm your pick-up location (Hamilton Street or The Strand corner) and be prepared for a short wait, as ride demand is high when the club lets out. If you’re coming on foot from nearby hotels or from the waterfront area, Havana is extremely walkable. It’s just a block from the popular Strand eateries and The Strand Plaza. From Tauranga’s waterfront Promenade or from hotels like the Distinction on The Strand, you can stroll there in under 10 minutes. This makes it easy to combine dinner on the waterfront with a quick walk up to the club afterward.

Inside the Venue

Once through the door, expect an upbeat, party atmosphere immediately. The front entrance leads you into an open lounge/bar space with low lighting and tropical décor accents. By 10pm the house lights go down and the music starts as the DJ takes over www.ticketfairy.com. Security staff will greet you – be ready to show photo ID (valid driver’s licence, passport or 18+ card) and possibly have a quick bag check. The club is 18+ only (no minors) and no outside food or drinks are allowed www.ticketfairy.com www.ticketfairy.com. Staff will politely enforce these rules at the door. If you’re wearing a baggy hat or large backpack they may ask you to remove it. Once past security, you enter the main room. The interior is all about colour and movement. Neon lights bathe the space, often in red, blue or green hues, and a mix of spotlights and strobes swing overhead www.ticketfairy.com. Walls are painted in warm tropical tones or covered with Cuban art motifs. Plants or palm decorations add to the exotic feel. The DJ booth itself is usually lit with LED strips or backdrops, making it a visual focal point. The sound system is loud and bass-heavy – you’ll feel the music thumping all around. If you have light or sound sensitivity, be aware the club uses strobe and flash lighting effects frequently www.ticketfairy.com. Bar service runs throughout the night. There are two main bars (front and back), staffed by friendly bartenders mixing drinks on demand. You can order a range of cocktails (Mojitos, margaritas, rum punches, etc.), beers (local brews and imports), wines and shots. The bartenders are known for creative and colourful drinks with Caribbean flair, using fresh fruit, rum and zesty mixers . Staff keep a friendly but professional pace – queues at the bar can get long after midnight, so it helps to move to one side if you need a refill during a peak dance set. Restrooms are located toward the rear or side of the venue, clearly signposted. They are typically indoor and relatively clean (usual club style). If you carry a coat, note there is often a staffed coat-check on colder or busier nights www.ticketfairy.com. For a small fee (a few dollars) you can leave jackets or small bags there. If there’s no official cloakroom set up, plan to hold onto whatever you don’t need (many people tie a light jacket around their waist or leave it by a table). Other amenities: There is no official merchandise stand at Havana – this isn’t a concert hall with t-shirts or posters. The club may display flyers or ask curated hashtag signage for social media, but you won’t find branded souvenirs beyond what you might buy at big festival events. On the tech side, the club is covered by mobile reception, so there is no public wifi for guests. You can safely use your smartphone to take photos or coordinate rides (just be mindful of others’ privacy if you’re snapping shots on the dance floor). Overall, expect Havana’s interior to be both intimate and high-energy. The packed dance floor and lively crowd tend to heat up the room within minutes, so wearing light layers is wise (if you bring a jacket, you’ll likely discard it early). The vibe is casual and fun; the mix of students, young professionals and tourists creates a friendly crowd. Staff keep the energy up, and you’ll often see the DJ hyping the party over the mic. One important tip: if you do order a drink, try to use credit card or mobile pay for speed once you’re in – but remember to have cash on hand just in case, since some nights offices like: door cover and coat-check may insist on cash only www.ticketfairy.com.

Nearby Amenities

Located in the heart of Tauranga’s entertainment district, Havana is surrounded by lots of after-hours conveniences. If you’re looking for a bite before the show, The Strand waterfront (just around the corner) is lined with dozens of eateries. You’ll find everything from casual takeaways to sit-down restaurants: cafés, sushi bars, steakhouses, Thai, Italian and more. For example, Mexicano and Brooklyn Eatery offer Mexican-inspired meals and shareable options, while seaside pubs like The Strand Bistro & Bar or the Cobb & Co steakhouse serve hearty Kiwi fare. (Keep in mind many of these close around 9–10pm, so it’s safest to dine at least an hour before heading to Havana.) If you want drinks before hitting the club, there are cocktail lounges and bars on adjacent streets. Hamilton Street itself has a couple of bars and late-night cafes, and The Strand area has places like Harbourside Craft (a brewpub) and Blue92 (a Canadian-owned brew bar) which stay open late into the night. Even just behind Havana on Willow Street, there’s a small bar where locals sometimes gather for a quick pint. In short, you’re walking distance from a wide range of pubs and wine bars if you want to socialize before or after the club. For those staying overnight, there are plenty of lodging options nearby. Within a 5–15 minute walk of Havana are both budget and mid-range hotels. On Cameron Road just a block from the city centre, you’ll find the Ibis Tauranga (a business-class hotel) and Comfort Inn Aurora. The Strand waterfront hosts higher-end hotels like the Distinction (formerly Sudima Tauranga) or the scenic Scenic Hotel (on the opposite corner of Durham Street). A few motels (like the Commodore on Wharf Street or Harbour City on Cameron Road) are also close by. If you don’t mind a short taxi ride, there are additional chain hotels (Quality, Novotel, etc.) in Mount Maunganui or Tauranga’s outskirts, but most visitors find staying downtown very convenient. Booking ahead is wise on busy weekends, as the regular nightlife can fill local rooms. As for late-night food, if you get peckish after dancing, don’t worry – there are still places to grab a snack. A short walk from Hamilton Street you’ll find 24-hour pātaka tutaea (mini-marts) and possible kebab/fish-and-chips stands near The Strand/Kirami Street area that serve late-night eaters. A common spot is the downtown burger/gyro stand near the waterfront carpark, or grabbing takeaway at convenience stores on Devonport Road. Even if most sit-down places are closed by closing time, these late-night takeaways can save the day. When it’s time to head home, a couple of transit and taxi options help. The city’s reliable taxis (Uber, Ola, local cabs) circulate around The Strand and Wharf Street, so walk a block if needed to flag one down at the lights on Cameron Road or the busy intersection of Devonport and Willow Streets. Local tips: after last call there’s often a queue of taxis along Devonport Street near the Criterion Hotel. If using ride-share, meet on The Strand to avoid blocking Hamilton’s narrow lane. Since buses have stopped by then, booking a ride before leaving the club is a smart move to avoid long waits.

What Makes This Venue Special

Havana stands out as Tauranga’s signature tropical escape in an otherwise Kiwi-centric nightlife scene. Its Cuban theme is not just superficial décor, but woven into every aspect – from the Caribbean cuisine to the music and cocktails. The vibrant theme resonates with patrons looking for something different than the typical local pub. In a city known for beach bars and breweries, Havana offers the exotic novelty of palm trees, rum cocktails and Latin rhythm. Architecturally, the space is special too. The club occupies a historic downtown building with high ceilings and an open-plan layout. Designers have cleverly retained an industrial-chic feel (exposed beams, brick or concrete surfaces) while adding bold accents of color and lighting www.ticketfairy.com. Remnants of old Tauranga bar culture (like vintage tiles or wooden paneling) might still peek through, giving a sense of continuity with the city’s heritage. This blend of old and new – a rough-hewn warehouse vibe enlivened by nightclub technology – creates a unique atmosphere you won’t find elsewhere in town. For artists and dancers, Havana has a reputation for a friendly and supportive vibe. DJs appreciate the high-quality sound system and the hungry dancefloor, and local bands or performers often get a warm reception by the crowd. Big nights at Havana become legendary – stories circulate of people dancing until last call and making lifelong memories. Staff members there often join the crowd by the end of the night, reinforcing that communal feeling. You’ll often hear returning patrons say things like “Havana’s homey” or “Havana on a Saturday is the place to be,” which speaks to its place in local culture. Culturally, the club contributes to Tauranga’s identity. It helps keep the downtown lively after dark, attracting visitors from neighboring towns and even reinforcing Tauranga’s image as a growing city with big-city nightlife flair. By throwing Latin-themed festivals, celebrating Caribbean holidays with special events, or simply being there every weekend, Havana also adds diversity to the social calendar. It’s not far-fetched to say that anytime Tauranga wants a bit of tropical fun, the answer is Havana. In essence, visitors and locals love Havana for its escapist vibe and the sense of fun it promises. It’s more than just a few bars – it’s an experience. Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday outing or random Saturday night, Havana has carved out a niche as Tauranga’s default “craic and cocktails” destination. Even the name itself – naming the bar after Cuba’s capital – tells patrons to expect a colourful night. From its lively dancefloor to its quirky decor, Havana’s unique character makes it a standout and a beloved fixture of Bay of Plenty nightlife.

Visitor Tips and Information

Havana is generally easygoing, but here are some tips to help make your visit smoother. **Accessibility:** The venue is on ground level and typically has step-free entry, making it wheelchair accessible. If you need any accommodations, the staff are happy to assist. **Dress:** The dress code is smart-casual. Avoid sportswear, boots or beach flip-flops www.ticketfairy.com – instead choose jeans/ pants and a neat shirt (even better if it’s a little dressy). For women, stylish casual attire is expected. Dressing up a bit is encouraged, but above all wear comfortable shoes for dancing. **Entry Requirements:** Havana enforces an 18+ age limit www.ticketfairy.com. Bring valid photo ID (NZ driver’s licence, passport or issued 18+ card) – bouncers will check it at the door. Without ID you will *not* be admitted. If you’re new to Tauranga, note that any person under 25 can be asked for ID even if they look older. **Cover Charges:** As mentioned above, normal weekend entry is cheap or free until late. Even so, keep a little cash on hand for cover fees or last-minute charges – many events accept only cash at the door www.ticketfairy.com. Also bring some cash if you use coat check; jackets and small bags can be stored (for a fee) on colder nights www.ticketfairy.com. **What to Bring:** Take only the essentials – your ID, a phone, and a wallet. Ideally use a small cross-body bag or wallet, and hold onto it at all times. Large backpacks or unnecessary valuables are best left behind. Makeup/touch-up items can be carried in a small clutch or pocket. If you have sensitive hearing, you might bring earplugs – the music gets very loud near the speakers. Ladies often carry a small purse or strap-bag for ID, cards and lipstick, so hands are free to dance. **What *Not* to Bring:** Food or drinks from outside aren’t allowed and will be taken away if found www.ticketfairy.com. Also, objects that could be dangerous (like glass bottles, large cameras, weapons, hard flasks) are prohibited www.ticketfairy.com. If you arrive on a bike or scooter, you may need to lock it outside. (There’s limited bike parking on nearby streets, but nothing official inside.) Finally, don’t plan to sneak back in after leaving: re-entry is generally discouraged. **Club Policies:** Photography with your phone is okay for selfies or group pics – in fact many people tag Havana in social media later. Just be mindful not to shine your phone flash in others’ faces or hold up the party for long photo shoots. If you want to bring a camera with detachable lens or video equipment, ask a staff member; generally big cameras are not allowed without prior permission. Smoking is not permitted indoors (NZ law), so if you smoke there will be a designated outdoor area or pavement outside the entrance. It’s common to step outside for a quick smoke break and then re-enter (just make sure to keep your ticket or mark, or you might have to line up again). **Arrival Advice:** On busy weekends, a good time to arrive is around opening time (10pm) or soon after. Early birds often get in free or avoid cover charges and can grab a good spot. If you arrive later (midnight+), expect a queue – though the line usually moves steadily. Also, early arrival helps with parking or catch some dinner/drinks beforehand. If you have reserved seats or a booth (some special packages allow it, though it’s not common), you should arrive by the booked time or inform the club in advance. **Comfort Tips:** As the night heats up, the room can get warm with so many dancers. Dress in layers if needed or expect to shed a jacket. Don’t wear loose flip-flops or uncomfortable shoes; many people opt for sneakers or snug sandals on the dance floor (bouncers will ask you to remove any flip-flops for safety). A water bottle isn’t needed since drinks are available at the bar, but do stay hydrated – many recommend starting the night with non-alcoholic fluids too. Finally, take care of your friends. If one of you needs air or water or just a break, the bar seating or back lounge provide a calmer area. **Leaving and Safety:** When it’s time to head home (the club closes around 2–3am), gather your belongings and head straight out. Security staff are often still at the doors as a safety measure. If you need a taxi or rideshare, the street is usually busy with cars by closing time. A practical tip is to request your ride a little early and wait in a well-lit spot. If you see a free cab passing by or waiting on the corner, flag it down quickly – competition is fierce right after closing. As a courtesy, have your fare ready or use an easy pay method so you can leave quickly. Lastly, remember to be respectful of neighbors as you leave; Tauranga is fairly quiet at night, so winding down low (no rowdy yelling) after exiting is appreciated. By keeping these tips in mind – dress smart, plan your transport, carry ID/cash, and arrive ready to party – you’ll be all set for a great time at Havana. Every visitor finds its relaxed door policy (aside from age checking) and lively atmosphere to be straightforward and welcoming. So come prepared, stay safe, and enjoy one of Tauranga’s most beloved nightspots.

Events at Havana eatery and nightlife, Tauranga

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