About Mount Social Club
Mount Social Club is a bustling café, tapas restaurant and evening bar tucked into the heart of Mount Maunganui, Tauranga (mountsocialclub.co.nz ). Open from morning coffee through late-night drinks (serving all day from around 8 am until 1 am), this “Social Hub” combines casual dining with live entertainment (mountsocialclub.co.nz ) (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). Housed in a building dating back to the 1970s, the venue underwent an extensive recycled-materials makeover in late 2014 and reopened in its current form (theguide.live ). It now seats large groups and hosts everything from casual meals to music events and private functions (corporate functions, weddings and even indoor concerts) (theguide.live ) (theguide.live ). In short, Mount Social Club is both a family-friendly restaurant and a late-night bar, making it notable as one of Mount Maunganui’s most popular mixed-use venues.
The interior is immediately eye-catching – often described as the “funkiest” industrial-chic hangout in town. Signature design elements include upcycled furnishings and art installations: you might lounge on a sofa repurposed from a vintage bathtub, or grab a seat on a pew fashioned from a 1965 Land Rover – even a sailboat has been turned into a dining table (theguide.live ). Quirky touches extend to the bar area (brass beer taps, salvaged wall plaques and colourful accents) that give the space a trendy, clubby vibe. Despite the fun décor, the atmosphere is open and welcoming. A dedicated kids’ playroom ensures families feel at home with youngsters (mountsocialclub.co.nz ), while easy ramp access and wide doorways make the venue wheelchair-friendly (mountsocialclub.co.nz ).
Behind the scenes, the focus is on fresh local cuisine. Chefs here pride themselves on using free-range meats and Bay of Plenty produce (with plenty of vegans, paleo and gluten-free options) (theguide.live ). In fact, the menu is intentionally flexible – staff will adapt dishes for dietary restrictions or vegetarian needs (mountsocialclub.co.nz ). This emphasis on quality (and sustainability – the club composts its kitchen waste and recycles heavily) is part of the venue’s identity. The result is a lively place: diners enjoy shared plates and hearty mains, and the bar pours local craft beers and unique cocktails from dusk until deep into the night. Many reviewers praise the friendly staff and spirited vibe (locals say the team “goes above and beyond” to create a fun atmosphere (wanderlog.com )). Overall, Mount Social Club combines a trendy design and a lively atmosphere with practical amenities (kids’ play area, accessible layout and modern menu) that make it a standout spot in the local scene.
Events and Programming
Mount Social Club offers a packed schedule of regular events, making most nights of the week a party. The program centers on community and live entertainment: for example, there’s a weekly Jam Night every Tuesday at 7pm (open to local musicians to sit in) and a Karaoke Night every Thursday at 9pm (mountsocialclub.co.nz ). Weekly quiz trivia contests run on the first Wednesday of each month (with cash and social-club-voucher prizes) (mountsocialclub.co.nz ). And on the last Wednesday of each month the Tauranga Jazz Society hosts a Jazz Jam session here – a free jazz open-mic where anyone with an instrument can join in (www.whatsontauranga.co.nz ) (mountsocialclub.co.nz ). These events draw a steady crowd, so it’s wise to arrive early or reserve a table (the venue itself recommends booking ahead, see Ticketing below) (www.whatsontauranga.co.nz ).
Live music is also a staple on weekends. Every Friday and Saturday evening, the club puts on live acoustic sets or band performances during dinner service, often followed by a DJ spinning tunes late into the night (theguide.live ). (Local DJs and visiting acts team up to keep the party going.) The venue even hosts a weekly “open stage” on Thursdays, spotlighting new or original local talent in an intimate jam-session format (theguide.live ). In summary, visitors can expect something most days: jazz jams, jam nights, quizzes, karaoke, original-music nights and dance parties. For big-name concerts or performances, occasional one-off shows do appear in the schedule (usually announced in advance by the club on its website and social media). Ticket prices vary – many of the regular weekly nights are free entry with drink minimums, while special events might charge a modest cover. In practice, Mount Social Club’s events tend to be very affordable: often you can simply buy a drink or a meal and stay for the show.
Tickets and Booking
Because Mount Social Club functions as a live-restaurant bar, most evenings don’t require advance tickets. Regular weekly events (jam nights, quizzes, karaoke) and Sunday jazz sessions are generally free to enter – you just pay for drinks or meals. For popular nights (especially the monthly jazz jam or big live music evenings), the club recommends booking a table ahead of time (www.whatsontauranga.co.nz ). This can be done via the venue’s website or by phone. The site offers an online reservation system (select party size, date/time, etc.), or you can call 07 574 7773 to reserve (mountsocialclub.co.nz ). In busy times, booking is smart even if you’re not buying tickets, as it guarantees a spot.
If Mount Social Club does offer ticketed events (for example, a high-profile visiting band or a special festival showcase), details would typically appear on local event platforms. Many Tauranga concerts use sites like Eventfinda or Ticketmaster. It’s a good idea to check those or Mount Social Club’s own social media for announcements. There’s no onsite “box office” at the club; usually tickets would be sold online or through the venue’s booking phone. For walk-up attendees, door sales may happen for headliner nights (if not sold out), but popular shows can sell out in advance. In summary: most club events are walk-in friendly, but for weekend shows or festival gigs, look for pre-sale listings. If in doubt, call ahead – the staff can tell you if an event requires a ticket or is first-come, first-served.
Seating and Layout
Mount Social Club is laid out like a spacious pub-restaurant rather than a formal theatre. The main area has a mix of café-style tables and chairs, some booths and high tables scattered around a large wooden dance floor. A small stage stands at one end for bands and performers; speakers hang overhead or on side walls. In practice this means the venue has general admission seating (no assigned seats) for shows, so early arrivers get first pick of the tables. The most desirable spots depend on your preference: front-center tables face the stage for best sightlines, while seating along the side walls or in corners provides a bit more elbow room. There’s also an outdoor deck/patio area (open when the weather is fine) which doubles as overflow seating or a smokers’ lounge. Overall the vibe is casual – think bar stools and share tables, not fixed theatre seats.
Acoustically, the space is lively and can get loud when a band or DJ is on. Electronics and a full PA system are in place, so expect dance music to fill the room. Because of this, audiophiles might note the sound is better near the centre rather than directly under the speakers. At smaller, quieter events (like an open-mic night), the atmosphere is intimate and easy to chat. For those sensitive to noise, it’s wise to avoid tables immediately next to the speakers. However, at regular shows the crowd is usually friendly and part of the fun; seats near the bar or at the rear allow both conversation and stage view. The club does not have a formal “VIP section” – all floorspace is open to patrons, though reserving a table near the front can feel a bit more exclusive on busy nights. Finally, restrooms are located off the main bar area; they’re standard pub facilities (note: some visitors have commented that the colorful décor extends to the washrooms) and can get crowded at peak times.
Getting There and Parking
Mount Social Club is located at 305 Maunganui Road, Mount Maunganui, Tauranga 3116 , at the corner of Maunganui and Domain Roads (www.whatsontauranga.co.nz ). This spot is in the main Mount Maunganui commercial strip, just a block from the mountain end of Cameron Road (the town centre). It’s easy to reach by car: take SH2/State Highway 2 (The Mount highway) through Mount Maunganui and watch for Maunganui Road.
Onsite, the venue shares street parking with the rest of downtown Mount. Tauranga City Council provides free parking throughout Mount Maunganui – you just need to observe the time limits posted on street signs (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). (There are no pay meters, but restrictions typically allow 1–3 hours between 8 am and 6 pm, daily (www.tauranga.govt.nz ).) In other words, you won’t pay a fee, but you can’t park indefinitely on the main roads. For longer stays, some visitors use unofficial spots like side streets or the adjoining RSA club car park a short walk away. If you’re arriving late at night, parking is generally unrestricted after 6pm.
Public transport is quite convenient. Bay of Plenty’s Baybus service runs frequent routes along Maunganui Road and Cameron Road connecting downtown Tauranga, Bayfair, Papamoa and Mount Maunganui. You can catch a bus to the Mount Beach or Tauranga City Bus hub and walk a few minutes. The nearest bus stops are on Cameron Road (e.g. outside the village shops) or on The Strand/Maunganui Road just a block away – walk north on Domain Road to reach the venue. Rideshare and taxis can drop off right outside on Maunganui Road (the corner of Domain Road). For cyclists, bike racks are usually available nearby in the shopping area. In sum, whether by bus or car, Mount Social Club is centrally located in the Mount community and easy to find; most visitors just aim for “Mount Maunganui town centre” and follow Maunganui Road from there.
Inside the Venue
When you enter Mount Social Club, expect a lively, modern bar-restaurant ambiance. The large front doors open into the main dining and lounge area, which leads directly into the bar zone. During the day it feels like a casual café–bar: servers in branded shirts will seat you at a table or take a seat at the counter. In the evening it transforms into more of a nightclub vibe, with colored lights and louder music. Security is generally low-key unless there’s a large live show, so you usually just show up, sign in with your table booking (if reserved) and pick a seat. Bag checks are not routine for normal nights, but staff may glance at large bags if things are crowded.
The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed. As one review puts it, it’s like a “clubby” lounge mixed with a dining room – there’s music playing softly whereas the bartenders pour beers and mix cocktails from an extensive menu (theguide.live ). Speaking of drinks, the bar is well-stocked: it highlights Bay of Plenty microbreweries (often some beers on tap you won’t find elsewhere) and an impressive array of spirits and cocktails (theguide.live ). You’ll notice NZ craft beers on tap, classic pub beers in bottles, plus a list of wines. The knowledgeable bar staff can recommend a local brew or a cocktail special.
Food and drink ordering is table service. When seated, the waiter will bring menus; you can also walk to the food counter/bar to order (especially if just getting a drink). The menu features sharable tapas, burgers, salads and hearty main courses; portion sizes are generous. As noted, they happily accommodate special diets – just mention any vegetarian or allergy needs and the kitchen will adjust items (mountsocialclub.co.nz ) (theguide.live ). Don’t miss the “Social Security Meal” (one reviewer’s choice of stir-fry rice; the portions are large enough to share). During shows, you can still order food and drinks, though service may be a bit slower when the place is packed. Restrooms are clearly signposted and located off the main room; note that some guests have warned they can get busy on big nights.
Other amenities inside: there is no formal coat check, so guests usually hang their own jackets on chairs or stands. The club offers free Wi-Fi to customers (ask staff for the password) – useful for looking up artists or posting photos during an event. A credit-card machine is available at the bar and tables, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash for splitting drinks. Accessibility-wise, the entrance is flat and there is at least one wheelchair-accessible restroom (mountsocialclub.co.nz ), so patrons with mobility needs should be comfortable. There is also one dedicated family-friendly bathroom. In short, expect a clean, modern interior with a bit of quirky décor, good natural light by day (big windows) and a fun vibe when the music kicks in.
Nearby Amenities
Mount Social Club sits in a very convenient location for dining and lodging. Just a short walk away on Cameron Road you’ll find dozens of cafés, restaurants and bars that suit any taste. For example, “August the Cafe” (within a few blocks) is famous for breakfast and brunch if you’re arriving early (mountsocialclub.co.nz ). Cameron Road itself is Mount Maunganui’s main dining strip – here you’ll see everything from casual pizza and Asian fusion places to stylish restaurants and cocktail lounges. If you want local seafood or a sit-down bistro experience before a show, the beachfront area of The Strand is only a 5–10 minute stroll further on. (Pro tip: it’s wise to make a dinner reservation at busy spots if you have a show right after.)
Right next to the club are some on-site eats: a casual burger joint and a poke poke bowl bar, for last-minute snacks. Within 2–3 blocks are more options – Indian, Mexican, pizza, and classic New Zealand pub fare. For a drink before or after, you’re also minutes from popular bars like **Catalina** (south on Domain Road) and **Tantrum** (on Salisbury Ave). In the immediate corner block, there’s also a small supermarket and a liquor store if you need to grab something fast.
As for accommodation, Mount Maunganui has plenty of lodging nearby. The closest well-known hotel is the Pacific Harbour Motor Inn (on Domain Road just behind the club), which is only 300 metres away; another is The Mount Airport Motel/Cabins at the corner of Domain and Sail St. For beachfront stays, the Mount Sea View or Moonlight Accommodation are a 10-minute walk south. All are walkable, or a quick ride-share if you have luggage. If using public transit, Baybus stops for city-bound trains are in front of the town centre complex, again just a few minutes’ walk. In practice, it’s easy to combine a night at Mount Social with other local hotspots: guests often make an evening of it by bar-hopping nearby (the area is very pedestrian-friendly). Late-night, you can catch a taxi from this junction or even arrange accommodation upstairs of eateries – the Mount is very compact.
What Makes This Venue Special
Several things set Mount Social Club apart. Architecturally, its creative reuse of materials and artistic touches make it memorable – every visit feels Instagram-ready. The vintage Land Rover seat or bathtub couch aren’t found elsewhere in the Bay (theguide.live ), giving the place a cool, relaxed character. It also champions sustainability in hospitality: the owners emphasize organic, free-range ingredients in their kitchen and actively recycle and compost (theguide.live ). Such ethics resonate with the local crowd in Tauranga, a city that values fresh, eco-minded dining.
Culturally, Mount Social Club has become a hub for Tauranga’s creative community. It’s a regular stop for the city’s jazz festival (hosting monthly jams and festival shows) and for musicians testing new material on the open stage. Local theater troupes or bands sometimes pop in to perform in an intimate setting. In short, it fosters local talent. Plus, the loyalty program – where members text in to earn points and receive a $5 dining voucher on sign-up – has given it a hip vibe of belonging in the neighbourhood (theguide.live ). As one local review notes, the staff here aren’t just bartenders: they’re “friendly staff who go above and beyond” and make everyone feel at home (wanderlog.com ).
Finally, there’s a sense of community tradition. The site has been a gathering place for decades (whenever it was an older hotel or club before 2014), and now it continues that legacy. It’s a place where Tauranga locals catch up over coffee or families celebrate birthdays over pizza, then swing by again that night for drinks or trivia. This dual personality – friendly local hangout by day, lively music venue by night – is somewhat unique in the Bay of Plenty. For both homegrown and traveling entertainers, the club offers a relaxed stage to play to an enthusiastic, beer-in-hand audience. For visitors, it’s special because it feels authentically “Mount” – an unpretentious spot where you can eat well, hear live music and truly experience the local vibe.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue bills itself as wheelchair-friendly. The entrance is level with the sidewalk and there’s ample space between tables for easy movement (mountsocialclub.co.nz ). An accessible restroom is available. If mobility is a concern, just mention it when booking and staff will help seat you comfortably. The friendly atmosphere means families are welcome; there’s a secure kids’ playroom for younger guests (mountsocialclub.co.nz ).
Timing: Because the Mount can get busy, plan for extra time. If you have a show, try to arrive at least 20–30 minutes before start. Weekends and jazz nights will pack the house, so booking tables beforehand is recommended (www.whatsontauranga.co.nz ). On slow weeknights, just walking in is fine. Remember that the kitchen usually closes around 9–10pm (depending on night) but drinks keep flowing until 1 am (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). If you’re dining, try to get food orders in early.
What to Bring: Photo ID is handy if you plan to enjoy alcoholic beverages — bartenders will request it for anyone who looks under 25. Dress code is casual: think jeans and a neat shirt or a sundress. Heels are fine, but keep in mind the floors are mostly wood and can be uneven on the stage side. Outside food or drinks are not allowed (as this is a fully licensed venue). Cameras and phones are welcome – many patrons snap pics of the quirky interior or the live performers. There’s a decent Wi-Fi connection if you need it, so you can check event details or share the experience while you’re here.
Common Mistakes: One thing to avoid is overstaying a free park limit. Set an alarm, because you could get a ticket if you leave your car too long on Maunganui Road. Also, if you want to guarantee a view of the stage, don’t just wander in at showtime – book a spot. And if you’ve never been, try exiting via Domain Road: it leads you right to a great coffee shop or dessert place *after* the show.
Age Restrictions: Mount Social Club is family-friendly, but after about 10pm it becomes mostly 18+. Children can dine here any time; just keep an eye on them after dark. The staff are relaxed, but if there’s a particularly rowdy late-night crowd, younger teens might be asked to sit with parents.
Other Advice: Follow the club on Facebook or Instagram for the latest event listings. If you’re coming for trivia, form your team of 4–6 and show up early to snag a table. If it’s a music event, consider wearing earplugs just in case (big speakers can get loud). Most importantly, be ready to mingle – this is a very social space. Ordering the “house platter” to share or sampling local craft beers are great ways to experience the place as locals do. With the beach footsteps away and plenty of parking (and a courtesy bus option occasionally on busy nights), Mount Social Club is designed to be stress-free. Just bring your friends and a sense of fun, and you’re set.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kinds of events are typically held at Mount Social Club?
The club’s calendar is packed. Expect weekly events like a Tuesday jam session (7pm) and Thursday karaoke (9pm) (mountsocialclub.co.nz ), plus a monthly trivia quiz and a Tauranga Jazz Society jam on the last Wednesday (mountsocialclub.co.nz ) (www.whatsontauranga.co.nz ). On weekends there’s live music or DJs every Friday/Saturday and even an open-mic night for original artists (theguide.live ). Special concerts or one-off shows also appear occasionally – check the venue’s website or local event listings for those.
How do I buy tickets or make a booking for Mount Social Club events?
Most of the club’s regular events are free entry – you just pay for food and drinks. For the occasional ticketed event, tickets are usually sold through local outlets (like Eventfinda) or by phone, since there’s no onsite box office. To guarantee a table, you can book ahead online or by calling 07 574 7773 (mountsocialclub.co.nz ). Advance table bookings are recommended for popular nights (for example, the jazz jam often advises reserving a table (www.whatsontauranga.co.nz )). Otherwise, you can often just walk in at showtime if space remains.
Where can I park when I visit Mount Social Club and is it expensive?
Parking around Mount Maunganui is free of charge – Tauranga City Council has no paid lots in the Mount (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). However, street parking comes with time restrictions (signposted P30 or P60, meaning 30 or 60 minutes typically 8am–6pm) (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). After hours (evenings) the restrictions lift. Your best bet is to use the free on-street spots on Maunganui Road or nearby parallel streets. A large RSA car park is also one block away (sometimes open to the public). Just remember to obey posted limits to avoid a ticket.
Do I need to be careful about my attire or any dress code at Mount Social Club?
No strict dress code is enforced – the atmosphere is relaxed. Patrons typically wear casual or smart-casual clothes (jeans, nice shirts, summer dresses, etc.). Because it’s a full-service restaurant, extremely casual attire (like rugby shorts or muddy boots) might seem out of place, but most guests are quite laid-back. For evening live shows, people often dress up a bit more (for example, nice jeans or a sundress). Avoid wearing hats or anything that obstructs others’ views near the stage. Overall, just aim to be comfortable and tidy.
Is Mount Social Club wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Mount Social Club advertises “easy access” for wheelchairs (mountsocialclub.co.nz ). The entrance is a flat, ramp-free walkway from the street, and the main floor is open and level. There is also at least one wheelchair-accessible restroom inside. Staff are prepared to assist if needed. Any patron with mobility needs should feel comfortable asking a staff member for help in finding an easy-access table.
Is the venue family or kid-friendly?
Very much so. Mount Social Club is designed as a family-friendly space. During meal hours there’s a dedicated kids’ playroom (with toys and games) to keep children entertained (mountsocialclub.co.nz ). Parents prize this feature, and many families dine there before shows. Of course, after about 10pm the crowd shifts more adult (and smoking is only allowed outside), but families are still welcome at any time. No special age policy applies for dining – just use your discretion after dark.
What is the exact address of Mount Social Club?
Mount Social Club is located at 305 Maunganui Road, Mount Maunganui, Tauranga 3116 (www.whatsontauranga.co.nz ). This is at the corner of Maunganui Road and Domain Road. If you’re on Cameron Road in Mount village, walk one block north on Domain Road. Otherwise, just follow the main highway (SH2) into Mount Maunganui and turn onto Maunganui Road.
Which nearby restaurants and bars are good for pre- or post-show drinks and meals?
You’re spoiled for choice in the immediate area. Just one block east is Cameron Road, the main Mount Maunganui dining strip. Here you’ll find everything from coffee shops (e.g. August The Cafe) and bakeries to Asian fusion, pizza, burger joints and vegan cafés. Fancy some cocktails or seafood? The Strand waterfront is a 5–10 minute stroll away, with casual bars and bistros. For quick bites, a burger/takeout place sits right next door to the club. If you want to plan, check online or ask locals – the Mount has dozens of eateries within a few blocks of the venue.
Are meals and drinks served at every event?
Yes. The club is a full-service licensed restaurant & bar, so you can order food and beverages whenever the kitchen is open. They serve breakfast, lunch and dinner menus during the day and continue with snacks or late-night bites even during shows. Drinks (beer, wine, spirits, non-alcoholic beverages) are always on sale whenever the doors are open. Just be aware that the kitchen typically stops taking orders by 9–10 pm, even though the bar stays open until 1 am (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). Expect a varied menu with tapas-style sharers, mains, salads and sweet treats for dessert.
Does Mount Social Club have a dress code or any specific rules?
The venue is quite casual—no formal dress code. Customers usually wear proof, smart-casual attire. Common sense applies (clean, decent clothes). The club does follow normal pub rules: no outside food/drinks, and smoking is only in the outside area. Minors should be accompanied by an adult, especially in late hours (id checks are routine after 9pm). In short: just dress comfortably but neatly, and you’ll fit right in.
What is the seating capacity of Mount Social Club?
The exact number isn’t publicly listed, but the venue is medium-sized for a pub-restaurant. It can comfortably seat large groups across multiple tables and can fit around 150-200 people at once. There’s space for groups of eight or more, and the design allows for bending tables together. Because events draw crowds, it’s best to reserve seats if you have a big party.
Does the club offer a loyalty or membership program?
Yes. Mount Social Club has a free loyalty program that rewards regulars. You can sign up by texting MSC plus your email address to 4664 – this nets you an immediate $5 voucher for the venue (theguide.live ). After that, every dollar you spend (via the linked credit card) earns points automatically. Members periodically receive specials, birthday credits and exclusive deals as part of the program (theguide.live ). It’s a good way to get a small bonus if you plan to return often.
When should I arrive to ensure a good seat for a popular night?
Plan to get there at least 15–30 minutes before showtime. For very popular nights (like Jazz Jam or a headliner), arriving even earlier (or reserving) is smart. The earlier you arrive, the more choice of tables near the front or in your preferred spot. If you have a dinner reservation around the show time, mention the event to the staff so they can time your table accordingly. Doors often open 30–60 minutes before an event, so early birds can claim the best vantage points.
Are the bathrooms at Mount Social Club family-friendly or wheelchair-friendly?
Yes. The club provides at least one all-gender/family restroom and an accessible toilet. The lavatories are fairly standard but include changing tables and wide doorways. Given the “easy access” layout of the venue, anyone with a stroller or wheelchair should be able to use the facilities comfortably (mountsocialclub.co.nz ). (Just note: on very busy nights the bathrooms can fill up quickly, so plan restroom breaks accordingly.)
Does the Mount Social Club enforce an age minimum or ID policy at events?
There’s no official age minimum for entry. Parents often bring children to early dinners and even some early-evening shows (especially quizzes). However, after 10pm the crowd tends to be mostly adults. Any patron who looks under 25 will be asked to show photo ID when ordering alcohol. If a show is specifically 18+ (rare at this venue), it will be advertised. In general the policy is: all ages welcome, but anyone drinking must provide age identification when requested.
What forms of payment are accepted at Mount Social Club?
The club accepts major credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, EFTPOS), and cash. Most patrons pay by card, especially larger parties. Contactless payment is available. (They don’t accept cheques.) There is no ATM on-site, so bring enough cash if you want to split a tab or tip in cash. As noted above, joining the loyalty program involves linking a card via message, so they’ll charge drinks to your leash account automatically.
What transportation options are there after late shows?
If you’re out late, taxis and rideshare services (Uber, Ola) are the easiest way home. There’s typically a taxi stand around Mount village (a short walk away) and plenty of Uber drivers in Tauranga. Public buses run until about 11pm on weekdays (and midnight on weekends) back to Tauranga or Papamoa – the Cameron/Bellevue bus stops are nearest. If you’re driving, make sure to note the time—it’s wise to move any cars parked on the street before 6pm if planning to stay overnight (parking becomes unrestricted after that time, though). Otherwise, many late-night attendees either walk a few blocks to nearby accommodations or call a cab service.
Are pets allowed at Mount Social Club?
No – pets (other than registered assistance animals) are not permitted inside the dining or bar area, per New Zealand hospitality regulations. You can leave service animals with staff if needed. However, the entrance and outside deck area are alfresco and pet-friendly, so you could have a well-behaved dog sit with you on the patio during the day (especially if you’re dining outdoors). Always check with staff first to be safe.
Is there any cover charge or entry fee for events at Mount Social Club?
Generally no, unless it’s a special advertised event. Most weekly nights (jam, quiz, karaoke) and Sunday jazz sessions are free entry – you just purchase food and drinks. If a particular live gig or festival show has a cover charge, it will be clearly advertised in advance. On normal nights there is no door fee or minimum spend beyond buying something at the bar or restaurant.
Does Mount Social Club provide WiFi or charging stations?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available for patrons. Just ask a staff member for the password when you arrive. This makes it easy to look up event details or share your experience online. There are also plenty of power outlets around the bar area and under some tables if you need to charge a phone or laptop while you visit. Just don’t forget your charger cable!
Does Mount Social Club have a coat check or cloakroom for belongings?
No formal coat check is provided. Guests usually hang coats on the back of chairs or on nearby coat stands. During busy events, staff may place your bag or jacket near your table – but there’s no locked storage room. For valuables, it’s best to keep them on you (the staff are trustworthy, but as with any public venue, it’s wise to keep an eye on small belongings). Large cases or suitcases are not permitted inside, so plan to leave those at your hotel or car.
Can I take photos or record video at Mount Social Club?
Yes, personal photography is perfectly fine (the quirky decor and live bands make great photo subjects). Many guests post Instagram stories there. However, flash photography during live performances may be disruptive, and commercial filming (like professional video) would require advance permission. As always, respect the performers’ requests. For TikToks or personal videos, most artists and DJs welcome it, but if in doubt ask the staff or performer first.
Does the venue have any historical significance in Mount Maunganui?
The building itself has a long local history (serving as a pub or restaurant since the 1970s), but the “Mount Social Club” as it is only dates back to 2014 (theguide.live ). What makes it significant is that it revived a central social spot on Maunganui Road. In its decade of operation, it’s become a fixture of Mount nightlife and community events. It’s not a heritage landmark per se, but it’s an example of the Mount’s changing culinary scene – transforming an old spot into a trendy, community-driven venue.
