About Hype U18 Music Festival
Hype U18 Music Festival is a youth-focused rave-style event series in Tauranga (Bay of Plenty, NZ) that offers club-quality dance parties exclusively for under-18s. Launched by local promoters, it quickly became “NZ’s largest underage festival” (www.ticketfairy.com ). By bringing big-city DJs, MCs and high-end production into unique local venues (like airplane hangars and sports halls), it gives Kiwi teens a legal, alcohol- and drug-free place to dance. Signature features include live multi-genre music (EDM, hip hop, drum & bass and more), immersive light shows and “world-class sound, lighting, visuals and special effects” (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Every event has licensed security, first-aid staff and a supervised “safe zone,” so parents and school administrators trust it as a secure, high-energy experience (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Events and Programming
Hype U18 isn’t a one-off show but a recurring festival brand. Tauranga has hosted a series of sell-out events (often numbered “Tauranga I, II, III…”). Past shows include a mid-winter party (July 2020 at the Main Hangar) and seasonal events like “Summer Kick Ons” (Jan 2021) and “Spring & Bass” (Dec 2021) (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Each edition typically runs 4–5 hours, often starting around 8pm and ending by midnight (www.ticketfairy.com ). The line-up always features live DJ sets and MCs spinning multiple genres—drum & bass, EDM, house, pop and hip-hop—in a single night (www.ticketfairy.com ). Local and national DJ talent from New Zealand’s club scene are brought in (organizers say from “our country’s leading clubs and festivals” (www.eventfinda.co.nz )) to headline these all-ages raves. Performers might include popular NZ EDM and hip-hop DJs, but the main draw for attendees is the party environment itself – one marketer calls it “the ultimate U18 music festival experience” (www.eventfinda.co.nz ).
Most Hype Tauranga shows have sold out quickly. Organizers often announce dates and open tickets months in advance. Previous Tauranga events have ranged from the unintimidating “Queen Elizabeth Youth Centre” (a big indoor sports-and-events hall in the CBD) to the iconic “Classic Flyers Aviation Museum” hangars in Mt Maunganui (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Venue choice varies, but each is converted into a makeshift concert hall with spectacular lighting, LED video walls and special effects. Look for on-site extras like a branded photo wall (many teens take ‘Gram-friendly pics) and an official after-movie video posted online (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets are always sold through official channels well before each event. In practice, this means you buy online through the promoters (no general box-office or walk-up tickets except any limited door sales). Because each Hype show is tightly capped, tickets usually sell out in stages. Organizers typically release several waves – “Early Bird,” “First Release,” “Second Release,” then a final batch – with prices rising at each stage (www.ticketfairy.com ). For example, early waves might start around NZ$20–25 (not including fees) and final releases end up around NZ$30–35 (www.ticketfairy.com ). (Past Tauranga events had final tickets at about NZ$33 including booking fees (www.ticketfairy.com ).) Often the first releases sell out in minutes, so it’s wise to sign up for email alerts or follow the festival’s social media pages to catch on-sale dates. As of recent events, all tickets were age-segregated (ages 13–15 vs. 16–18) so that each teen must buy the correct age category (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Keep in mind: Hype enforces strict ID and name checks. Your ticket name must exactly match the name on your photo ID (school ID or similar) (www.ticketfairy.com ). A parent or guardian must purchase tickets for anyone 15 or under, but the attendee’s name is still locked to the ticket (www.ticketfairy.com ). The festival has an official ticket transfer/resale system (which only opens in the week leading up to the event), and strongly warns against any other “third-party” ticket sales to avoid fraud (www.ticketfairy.com ). There is usually some limited door-sale stock (if any tickets remain), but don’t count on it – better to buy online in advance. (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com )
Seating and Layout
Unlike a sports arena with fixed seats, Hype U18 events are set up more like club gigs. Most venues are used for general admission standing-room. The main floor in front of the stage is open for dancing. Some venues (like Queen Elizabeth Youth Centre) also have bleacher seating or court-side benches; for example QEYC has a tiered grandstand that seats around 850 spectators (creativebop.org.nz ). In those cases you can either stand/dance near the stage or sit in the stands. But there are no assigned seats – first-come entry seating. Organisers often sell a special “queue jumper” or VIP ticket (free upgrade for the first 250 buyers) that lets holders enter early (around 7:30pm) and skip lines (www.ticketfairy.com ). There are no separate Zones or side stages: the promoters note “there is no difference between tickets or separate zones/stages” (www.ticketfairy.com ). Everyone gets access to the same dance floor area. Keep in mind acoustic: the high-powered sound system is very loud on the floor, so standing further back or on the bleachers can ease hearing fatigue.
General Admission (GA): Most attendees stand on the main floor. Arrive early for the best spots by the stage.Priority Entry: Early ticket holders (queue-jumpers) get in at 7:30pm, ahead of the main crowd (www.ticketfairy.com ).Seating: In sports-hall venues like QEYC, raised bleachers hold ~850 people (creativebop.org.nz ), offering a good view if you prefer sitting.Avoid: The very front row near speakers (ears will ring!) or far back corners (bad view).
Getting There and Parking
The festival’s location changes by event, so always check the specific venue address for each show. Past Tauranga events have been held at places like the Queen Elizabeth Youth Centre (corner Cameron & 4th Ave, downtown Tauranga) and the Classic Flyers Aviation Museum (8 Jean Batten Drive, Omanu, Mount Maunganui) (www.eventfinda.co.nz ) (creativebop.org.nz ). Both are easy to reach by car, but parking situations vary. By car: Most venues offer free on-site parking or nearby lots. For example, Classic Flyers has its own lot, and QEYC’s location at Memorial Park has several adjacent car parks (often free or coin-operated). Arrive early, as spaces can fill up once the show starts. Public transit: Tauranga buses (Bay Hopper service) run routes near these sites. For QEYC/ Memorial Park events, local buses on Cameron Road stop within a block. For Classic Flyers (Mt Maunganui), the nearest bus stop is on State Highway 2 (Aerodrome area). Check the Metlink Bay of Plenty bus schedules for the best route on event night.
Rideshare and Taxis: Uber, Ola and local taxis service Tauranga. Drop-off points will be at the venue entrance or a designated meetup (follow any organiser instructions on location). After the show (usually ending around midnight), rideshares may be busier, so pre-book if possible.
Inside the Venue
Entry usually requires showing ID and a matching ticket (name on ticket) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Volunteer or licensed security staff will perform bag searches and wand screens; avoid bringing prohibited items (see below). Once inside, you’ll step into a high-energy club scene. Expect professional concert lighting beams, lasers, LED screens and special effects synced to the music. There is a large central stage or DJ booth. Even though it’s a youth event, the production values are top-notch – organizers advertise “world class festival production” and “signed V Energy & Pepsi non-alcoholic bar” at past shows (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.eventfinda.co.nz ).
Food & Drink: Since the event is alcohol-free, there will usually be a stall or “bar” selling energy drinks (like V Energy), soda and bottled water (www.ticketfairy.com ). Some venues also allow snack vendors or have on-site cafes, but major fast-food restaurants are not typically inside. It’s recommended to eat beforehand and bring a water bottle if allowed. No alcohol is permitted – this is strictly enforced for under-18 safety.
Restrooms & Facilities: Large festivals use portable toilets or the venue’s existing restrooms. Hand-washing stations and drinking fountains may be available. A coat-check service is not usually provided at these youth events, so plan to keep personal items in reach. Free Wi-Fi is not guaranteed (cell coverage can be spotty with 1,000+ phones in one hall), so assume limited connectivity. You may see a merchandise booth selling Hype T-shirts or other swag, but lines can be long.
Atmosphere: The vibe is enthusiastic but family-friendly. Expect cheering, chanting, dancing and crowd-fundaded moshing (innocent and safe, with “positive vibes” rules). On-site “event photographers” will often be snapping candid shots and they may later share an official after-party video (www.ticketfairy.com ). There is always a medical/first aid station and a quiet “safe zone” for anyone who needs a break from the crowd or lights (www.ticketfairy.com ). Licensed security and venue staff oversee the entire space to keep it secure. Smoking, vaping and illicit substances are forbidden – you’ll see strict announcements to that effect. The overall goal is a fun rave atmosphere that’s open and inclusive for all high schoolers.
Nearby Amenities
Food & Drink Pre-Show: If you arrive early, nearby restaurants and cafés offer dinner options. At QE Youth Centre (downtown Tauranga), you’re near Cameron Road shops: pizza places, burger joints and fish’n’chip shops are within a few minutes’ walk. Mt Maunganui’s Classic Flyers is close to the Mount’s town centre and beach shops (café-bars like The Royce or Salt Station) a 5–10 minute drive away; Southward down Omanu Road lies Papamoa’s sushi and seafood outlets.
Hotels: Visitors from out of town can stay in Tauranga city centre (e.g. Ibis, Quest apartments, stations) if the festival is at QEYC. If the event is at Mt Maunganui, there are beachside motels and B&Bs like The Study or Algoa Sands nearby. Baypark Convention Centre and Baypark Speedway (Fitzgerald Ave) also have hotels if that location is used in future. Always book early for event weekends.
Post-Event: Events usually end by midnight, when bars are still open. If you’re dining or catching a ride after, note that buses may no longer run. Tauranga has a late-night bar scene on The Strand and Wharf Street for older crowds, but as an under-18 you’ll likely head home. Plan to be picked up by 12:30am. Alternatively, reserve an Uber or taxi early (~11pm) to avoid the post-concert rush. The city is flat and safe to walk (in a group) to nearby parking areas if drivers plan to circle back for you.
What Makes This Venue Special
Hype U18 stands out because it’s specifically tailored for Kiwi youths – something like this didn’t really exist before. Its unique appeal is the “clubbing” experience without the age barriers. It transforms non-traditional spaces into vibrant mini-festivals. For example, holding a rave inside Classic Flyers gives the event an aviation-hangar feel (planes in the background) which is unlike any other concert. The Queen Elizabeth Youth Centre, a long-time community sports hub, is likewise repurposed into a pop-up dance hall. This “festival in an unexpected place” approach adds novelty and excitement.
In the local Tauranga culture, Hype U18 has become a bit of a legend among high schoolers. Many attendees see it as their rite-of-passage party – the night they get to dance to big tunes flanked by friends and licensed security. The festival also has given local DJs and teens a new showcase platform, boosting Tauranga’s profile on the NZ club map. It has even drawn some media and council interest for providing a safe entertainment option for youth. In short, Hype is special because it respects young clubbers with a professional-grade production, while keeping things sober and supervised (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
ID & Tickets: Always carry your photo ID (school or student ID works) – they check age and name against your ticket (www.ticketfairy.com ). Make sure the name on your ticket is correct before arriving. If you’re 15 or younger, a parent/guardian must have purchased the ticket for you. (www.ticketfairy.com )Arrive Early: Doors typically open around 7–7:30pm. If you bought a queue-jumper pass, you can get in at 7:30pm (www.ticketfairy.com ). Even with a regular ticket, arriving right when doors open will help you grab a good spot and avoid long lines.Prohibited Items: Most clubs’ usual rules apply. Expect a strict no-weapons, no-large-bottles, no-smoking and no-substance policy. Bag searches are routine. Carry only essentials in a small bag or pockets.Dress Comfortably: Wear clothes you can dance in (short sleeves or light layers) and sturdy shoes–boots or sneakers are better than sandals. Avoid expensive jewelry or anything you’ll worry about losing. If the event hall is big, bring a lightweight jacket just in case (it may be cooler in some outdoor queue areas).No Alcohol or Vaping: The event is completely alcohol- and smoke-free. Sponsor stands sell energy drinks and water (www.ticketfairy.com ), but glass bottles are usually banned (especially in sports halls). Drink up beforehand, and bring an empty reusable water bottle if allowed (ask staff).Stay Charged: Phones can run out quickly during a night of photos and videos. Consider a small power bank, but keep it secured. You may not have guaranteed Wi-Fi – carrier signal at big events can be slow.Health & Sensitivity: If you get overwhelmed by crowds, lights or smoke effects, locate the “quiet corner” or safe-zone (usually a roped off lounge area). Earplugs can help protect your hearing from the very loud speakers up front.Plan Your Ride Home: Carpool or coordinate with parents. Public buses may not run late, so pre-book a taxi/Uber for after midnight. If an event ends at 11pm, aim to leave by 12:15am at the latest.Follow the Rules: Staff and security enforce the festival’s policies. No fighting, no gatecrashing. It’s an R13 event but older teens (16–18) also attend – everyone expects respect. Breaking rules means removal.Capture the Moment: Phone cameras are fine (use #HYPEU18 if posting on social media later!), but leave the large DSLRs or professional cameras at home. Some events set up a branded photo wall – take advantage of it for souvenir pics (www.ticketfairy.com ).Follow Updates: Check Hype U18’s official social media or event pages in the days before. They’ll post any last-minute info on doors, buses, weather, etc. (For example, if an event is partly outdoors, they’ll warn about rain or the need for jackets.)Inclusive Facilities: Venues like the QE Youth Centre have wheelchair access ramps and accessible restrooms, making them inclusive. If you have any special needs (mobility, medical, etc.), contact the organisers in advance so they can assist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the minimum age to attend Hype U18 Music Festival?
Hype U18 events are strictly for teenagers. Attendees must be at least 13 years old by the date of the show. Tickets are sold in age categories (13–15 and 16–18) and checked at the door, so under-13s are not allowed. (Adults 19+ cannot buy tickets either.)
How and when do tickets go on sale?
Tickets are sold only online through the festival’s official channels (no in-person box office). Sales are announced via social media and email newsletters. Typically, tickets go on sale a few months before each event in stages (Early Bird, First Release, etc.). Popular Tauranga shows often sell out within days, so it’s best to buy as soon as releases open.
What is the price range of tickets?
Ticket prices increase through the sales waves. Early-bird prices have started around NZD $20–25 (excluding fees), rising to roughly $30–35 for final-release tickets. In Tauranga events, late-release tickets have been about NZ$33 including fees (www.ticketfairy.com ). Always check the price carefully before purchase, and note that each ticket category is age-specific.
Can I buy tickets at the door?
Occasionally there are very limited door-sale tickets, but this is not guaranteed. Well-run Hype events usually sell out online. If you’re trying for last-minute tickets, arrive early at door opening, but the safe bet is to buy in advance online. If any tickets are left, they might only sell them at the venue just before showtime.
What time should I arrive at the festival?
Gates typically open around 7:00–7:30pm. If you have a priority/queue-jump ticket, plan to be there right at 7:30pm (first 250 ticketholders get in early (www.ticketfairy.com )). Otherwise, aim to arrive by 8pm when the main performance usually starts. Remember, there is a strict no-entry policy after 10pm (www.ticketfairy.com ), so don’t show up too late.
Where do these events usually take place?
Locations have varied. In Tauranga, past Hype events have been held at the Queen Elizabeth Youth Centre (Tauranga’s central indoor sports arena) and at Classic Flyers Museum in Mt Maunganui (www.eventfinda.co.nz ) (creativebop.org.nz ). Each event’s official announcement will list the venue address. Both venues are well-known local facilities with plenty of space for a big crowd.
Is there parking at the venue?
Yes. Both Classic Flyers and the QE Youth Centre have on-site or adjacent parking. At Classic Flyers (8 Jean Batten Dr, Mt Maunganui) there’s a free lot. QE Youth Centre (Memorial Park area) has several public car parks nearby. Parking is generally free on weekends but fills early, so arrive with time to spare. Always follow signage on the night (some spots may be reserved for staff).
How do I get there by public transport?
Tauranga’s bus network (Bay Hopper) serves both venues. For QE Youth Centre, hop on any city route that stops on Cameron Road (near Memorial Park). For Classic Flyers, look for buses that serve Mt Maunganui/Airport area (e.g. the Mount loop routes). Check the Metlink Bay of Plenty website for the latest routes and times on the event day. Plan to arrive early as the last buses may run earlier in the evening.
What items am I allowed to bring?
Bring your ticket (printed or on phone) and photo ID. Wear a wristband or lanyard if provided. Small personal items are fine, but expect bag checks. Generally: allowed – small backpack/binocular pouch, camera phone, a refillable water bottle (if permitted by staff). Not allowed – outside alcohol, electronic cigarettes/vapes, glass bottles, hard drugs, weapons or large bag packs. The exact list may vary, so check the FAQs on the event page or official announcements before you pack.
Can I take photos or videos at the event?
Smartphone photos and videos are usually fine (many teens share clips online). Organizers even set up Instagram-worthy photo walls (www.ticketfairy.com ). However, avoid professional camera equipment with detachable lenses (these can be banned). Watch out: security may spot-check cameras. Also be respectful – some patrons just want to dance. Use flash discreetly if at all.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Both Classic Flyers Museum and Queen Elizabeth Youth Centre are public venues with accessibility features. They have ramps and accessible restroom facilities. In fact, the QE Youth Centre’s main hall is rated as a multipurpose community venue, implying full accessibility (creativebop.org.nz ). If you or someone in your group has special needs, consider contacting the event organizers in advance so they can accommodate any specific requirements.
Will food and drink be available inside?
Yes, but only non-alcoholic refreshments. There is usually a drink stall selling water, sports drinks and energy drinks (for example V Energy and soda) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Occasionally there may be snack vendors selling candy, popcorn or hot chips. No free meals are provided, so plan accordingly. You may want to eat a meal before arriving. (Using dine-in restaurants or food trucks outside the venue after the show is also an option.)
Can parents attend or enter with their children?
Usually, Hype U18 is an unsupervised event reserved for youth only. If your teenager is under 16, a parent must purchase the ticket for them, but the parent does not typically enter the event. Adults or siblings over 18 may not accompany the teen inside. (The policy is “school-student only” and organizers often card at the door.) If you have concerns, contact organizers ahead of time. For safety reasons the promoters keep the space strictly limited to the 13–18 age group, with on-site staff supervising.
What does “no entry after 10pm” mean?
This means the venue closes the doors at 10pm sharp – anyone not already inside by then will be turned away. The party still goes on through the night, but to ensure safety and compliance with curfew rules for minors, late arrivals are not admitted. So plan to arrive before 9:45pm to allow time for entry.
How long are the performances?
A typical Hype U18 show in Tauranga lasts about 3–4 hours. For instance, recent events have run from roughly 8:00pm to midnight (www.ticketfairy.com ). The exact schedule (opening DJs, headliners, set times) is announced closer to the event date. There is usually no artist before 7pm, since it’s a school-age crowd event.
