About La Mexica
La Mexica is a Mexican-style cantina and live music venue on The Strand in central Tauranga. This vibrant restaurant-bar opened in the mid-2010s and has become known for its authentic Mexican dishes (tacos, enchiladas, ceviche, ribs) and lively atmosphere. The interior is decked out in colourful decor – bright tiles, murals, and rustic accents – giving it a festive cantina vibe. It’s family-run, focusing on fresh flavours and handmade salsas. Signature offerings include craft margaritas and a wide range of tequilas and mezcals. The kitchen even hand-crafts tortillas on site. Beyond dinner service, La Mexica is notable for its events space with a full sound system and DJ booth, making it a unique hangout in Tauranga’s scene. It began hosting Latin-themed nights, salsa classes and concerts around 2015–2016, and even pop-up theatre (like a summer Shakespeare series) in its courtyard. The restaurant area seats dozens, and the venue can accommodate roughly 275 guests when fully set up for a big party. Overall, La Mexica brought a slice of Mexican culture to the waterfront – serving hearty Tex-Mex comfort food, festive drinks and an energetic party vibe all in one place.
Events and Programming
La Mexica hosts a wide range of events, from live bands and DJs to dance socials. Its calendar includes Latin dance evenings (weekly salsa and bachata lessons), themed party nights (neon UV events, Latin rhythms on Halloween) and one-off celebrations like Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) fiestas. The venue often features DJs spinning genres from house, techno and drum’n’bass to reggae and cumbia. Past lineups have included international acts (Pola & Bryson, Kove, Whiney, P-Money) as well as local Latin jazz and Merengue bands. The sound and lighting system is professionally rigged for club shows, so concerts have vibrant production. Events usually start around 8–10pm and run into the early morning (La Mexica holds a late-night licence until 3am). Ticket prices vary: club nights are often $10–20 cover, while headline DJ or band concerts can be $30–50 depending on the act. Popular events can sell out quickly, so online advance booking is common. On non-event days, the venue still features live music: acoustic guitar evenings, or occasional jam nights by local musicians. During summer festivals or city-wide events, La Mexica often participates with special parties (e.g. harbour parties during Bayfest). In short, expect salsa, bachata, cumbia, EDM and more – all blended with a Latin flare.
Tickets and Booking
For concerts and dance nights, tickets to La Mexica events are sold through official ticketing channels (venues like event listings or directly via the venue’s website) and sometimes at the door if space permits. Major shows go on sale 1–3 months in advance, and smaller club nights may offer tickets a few weeks ahead. If planning a night out, watch La Mexica’s announcements or local event sites for links. Advancing booking is wise for big names or finales of festivals. The venue typically opens doors 30–60 minutes before event start. For parties, a $10–20 cover is common; for bigger concerts, ticket tiers (general admission vs VIP) may be offered. Box office at the venue is not full-time, so buy ahead if you can. For dining, regular restaurant service requires no ticket – just walk in or reserve by phone (07 928 0833). Weekend evenings are busy, so reserving a table is recommended if you have a large group. The box office on event nights sells remaining tickets and will check IDs at entry. All evening events are 18+ (photo ID required), so plan accordingly. On-site payment is by cash or card at the bar/cashier. If you’re interested in private hire (like a birthday or corporate event), contact the management in advance to discuss catering and group rates; these can include set menus and drink packages based on headcount. Also inquire about any student discounts or group bookings for scheduled events, as special rates or promotions sometimes pop up.
Seating and Layout
La Mexica’s floor plan blends restaurant dining with a club atmosphere. Upon entering, you’ll see a long bar on one side and dining tables along the walls. Seating is casual: metal and wood chairs, stools, and bench seating. Normally, dozens of patrons can be seated for a meal. In the back there is a covered courtyard for outdoor dining and socialising, plus a small private patio area. For live music or dance events, staff clear the central tables to make room for standing or dancing. The DJ booth and any stage area are typically at the front of the room near the entrance. Best views depend on your preference: front sections give the most dance-floor space and proximity to performers, while side booths or the courtyard provide a break from the noise. The venue has an open ceiling and concrete floors, so sound carries loudly (be prepared for bass). VIP or reserved sections (usually rope-off tables by the bar) may be available for group bookings on big nights. Since there’s no upper balcony, most seating is on one level, but the back hallway acts like a separate lounge where music is a bit softer. Look for tables by the windows if you prefer daylight; those by the back are closer to the smokers’ patio. The layout is flexible – employees rearrange furniture between events – so there’s no single “bad seat,” just different experiences: dancing crowds or casual dining. Note that inside can be warm when crowded, so some event-goers step outside to cool off in the courtyard. Overall, plan to mingle: at a busy show, many people will be standing or moving around, so feel free to circulate rather than staying put.
Getting There and Parking
La Mexica’s address is 109 The Strand, a prominent corner on Tauranga’s waterfront road. By car, parking can be challenging on busy nights. On-street metered parking runs along The Strand (2-hour limit, weekdays), but these fill up quickly on event nights. Importantly, the northern Strand carpark closed in late 2023 for a city redevelopment, so do not rely on it (www.sunlive.co.nz). Instead, use nearby paid lots: Dive Crescent Car Park (under the shade sails, ~100m east) or Cliff Road Car Park (under the overpass, ~150m east) – both have pay-and-display machines and offer free parking after 5pm and on weekends. Covered parking is also available in the Spring Street or Elizabeth/Wharf Street carparks (a 5–10 minute walk). Taxi and rideshare (Uber, Ola) drop-offs are easy at the front door on The Strand; just flag down the car or use The Strand stop. For public transit, Tauranga’s Baybus network serves the CBD. The closest bus stop is on Devonport & Hamilton (Stop Q, two blocks west and uphill, about 5-minute walk). Alternatively, take any city-bus that stops at Devonport/Willow for the main interchange, then walk 5–6 minutes along The Strand westward. Cyclists: few bike racks exist, so bring a good lock. The Strand has a painted cycle lane, but keep in mind traffic can be heavy after dusk. Pedestrians: La Mexica is a 10–15 minute stroll from downtown sights like Baycourt Theatre or The Strand Reserve park, and about 20 minutes on foot from the city bus hub. If coming from Mt. Maunganui, a scenic walk or bicycle ride across the Harbour Bridge (pedestrian lane on The Strand) is about 30 minutes. In summary: plan for limited parking and factor in extra minutes for a ride-share or bus if it’s late.
Inside the Venue
La Mexica’s interior exudes casual, festive energy. The walls often feature Mexican folk art and Day-of-the-Dead skull decorations, while the bar displays dozens of liquor bottles in a mosaic-style backdrop. The main bar is U-shaped and well-stocked with local beers, house-made margaritas and more. Bar service is friendly but can slow down when busy, so consider letting staff know your drink refill before ordering. The kitchen is open-concept in back, and you’ll often catch the sizzle from the grill and enticing aromas of smoked chipotle. Restrooms (including an accessible unisex toilet) are at the rear; note they can get crowded on full nights. The venue is lit by low-wattage, lantern-style lighting indoors and party lights in the event space (colored LEDs and strobes when DJs play). For tech, expect a high-quality PA system – crowds note that dance music sounds great throughout the room. When a live concert is on, spotlights and projectors add atmosphere. Patrons often leave coats on chair backs or use wall hooks by the bar; there is no dedicated cloakroom, so keep valuables with you. Wi-Fi is not advertised, so rely on phone data (cell signal inside is generally strong). Photography for social media is common, but be mindful of other guests if using a flash. The courtyard out back offers a more chill vibe – an alternative cooling-off spot mid-set (and doubles as the smoking area by law). Norre-lual: at late-night closing the staff may offer to call a taxi for you. The overall vibe inside is lively and informal. You’ll hear reggaeton or salsa music before a set, then booming club tracks during a show. In short: the venue feels like a fiesta in a container – loud, colourful, and totally immersed. So expect to dance, sing along or simply soak up the scene; it’s friendly and unpretentious.
Nearby Amenities
La Mexica is located right by Tauranga’s downtown attractions. Steps away is The Strand Reserve (a landscaped park and playground) – nice for a pre-dinner stroll on a sunny day. For pre-show dining, there are many options within a few minutes’ walk: Federal Deli (American-style comfort food) is on Wharf Street, crossing the parking lot; Thai Munchies is around the corner on Bancroft Street; and Cafe Lafayette sits on lower Devonport Road. After dinner or late-night drinks, nearby bars include Crossing the Ditch (craft beer pub, 2 min walk west) and Piccolo (cozy cocktail bar). Hotels and accommodations: the Novotel downtown (two blocks away on Dive Crescent) and the Rotorua Inn on Devonport Street are convenient for late nights. For post-show supper, note that Tauranga’s late-night takeaways (burger joints on 8th Avenue and Subway on Durham Street) are close by. Public transport: the main bus interchange is about 7-10 minutes on foot (along Wharf Street and Cameron). If driving, the Elizabeth Street parking building offers evening rates and is a 5-minute walk (via Durhams St). For taxis, the Rangatira or Yellow Cabs ranks is on Cameron Road near Devonport. In summary, you’re in the heart of the city – restaurants, shops and hotels surround you, making a full night of dinner, show and afterparty easy.
What Makes This Venue Special
La Mexica stands out by bringing genuine Latin flavour to Tauranga’s waterfront. It was one of the first Mexican cantinas in the city, so it carved out a niche. The bright mural on the back wall and festive decorations ensure it feels like a Las Vegas-style cantina rather than a typical kiwi pub. Historically, it has hosted memorable events – tequila-fuelled New Year’s Eves, imported Latin Carnival acts, etc. – which locals still talk about. It even hosted Summer Shakespeare Tauranga (performing a comedy at La Mexica in 2016), blending high art with tacos. The venue’s impact: it helped launch Tauranga’s modern nightlife scene. Before La Mexica, after-dark options were limited; it proved people will come to the Strand for music and dancing. Artists love it because the sound/tech setup rivals a small club: a touring DJ compliments the clarity of the rig. For audiences, the personal vibe (owners often greet guests) makes them loyal – it’s a family-run feel in an industrial-chic space. In cultural terms, La Mexica has done more than sell food – it introduced TGIF salsa jams to an audience that never had Latin dancing, creating community nights. It remains a hotspot for international visitors seeking local colour, as well. All these legendary nights – from the Halloween neon parties to charity salsa marathons – have made it an icon in Tauranga lore. In short, La Mexica’s combination of authentic cuisine, upbeat music and waterfront setting is truly unique in the Bay of Plenty.
Visitor Tips and Information
– Check current status: In early 2024, a local council hearing revoked La Mexica’s temporary liquor licence due to management concerns, causing it to close until the formal licence is reviewed. Before going, call to confirm the venue is open, as operating hours may have changed. – Arrival timing: Weekends (Thu–Sat) are busiest. For dinner, book or arrive by 7pm. For shows, doors open 30–60 minutes before start—early arrival can avoid queues. – Dress: Smart-casual is standard. Themed nights welcome creative outfits (neon on glow parties, Mexican cultural attire on Cinco de Mayo, etc.). Avoid swimwear or sleeveless jerseys at night. – ID & Age: The restaurant serves all ages until around 9pm, but after that events are 18+ (NZ driver’s licence or passport required). – Bags & security: Security does a quick bag check on event nights. Carry only essentials (phone, wallet, keys). Large backpacks or outside drinks are not allowed. – Wheelchair access: The entrance is flat and there is an accessible restroom. Staff will assist patrons with mobility needs. – Food: Share dishes to sample more. Mains average NZ$25–30, burgers/enchiladas or tacos often under $20. Gluten-free and veggie options exist. Tip: try the slow-cooked pork ribs or beef brisket burrito – locals praise the large portion sizes. – Drinks: Lunch/dinner menus include mocktails. At night, tequila comes by the flight or on the rocks. Happy hour specials often apply before 7pm on weekdays. NZ tap water is served free on request. – Smoking: Indoors is smoke-free. An outdoor courtyard area is provided for smokers. If smoking outside mid-show, keep your handstamp visible for re-entry. – Payment: EFTPOS is available (min spend ~$10). Prices are in NZD. Tipping is not mandatory, but extra change to staff is appreciated for top service. – Connectivity: Don’t rely on Wi-Fi (it may not be provided). Have your phone ready for digital tickets. – Family visits: Kids are welcome for early meals; noisy events after dark are not kid-friendly. – Regulations: No BYO food or drink. Outside food/fish sauces are not allowed. During events, photography by non-professionals is fine but respect other guests. – Transportation: Plan a bike rack spot or bus route in advance. The last Baybus runs around midnight on weekdays. Always use a sober driver or taxi after late-night drinks. – Common traps: Many patrons arrive at 8pm on Friday scouts. If too busy, the staff will seat you in the courtyard (great if the weather’s fine). – Local advice: Regulars rave about Taco Tuesday and Margarita Monday promotions – ask the bartender about weekly specials. They also suggest quieter seat choices: high stools by DJ in front if you want the party, or a corner booth if you prefer chatting. – Politeness: Staff speak English (and perhaps a bit of Spanish). A friendly greeting in Spanish (hola, gracias) is always smiled at. – Insider tip: Check if La Mexica partners with food delivery in daytime. Post-lunch Tuesday, some locals grab “nacho packs” to reheat at home. – Emergencies: A first-aid kit is behind the bar. For any trouble on site, staff can call security or emergency services immediately. – Vacationers: Tourists often forget the strict smoking laws – note smoking is allowed only in the marked outdoor area. – Last call: The bar shuts at 3am sharp. If your Uber or taxi is late, step into the lit stairwell behind the courtyard which leads out to The Strand.