About Soper Reserve
Soper Reserve is a large open grassy park in Mount Maunganui (Tauranga), Bay of Plenty. Bordered by the slopes of Mauao (the Mount), it serves as both a neighbourhood recreation ground and an event venue (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). The land (95 Newton St) was originally part of a 1970s-era motor camp, then gifted by the Soper family to the township in the early 1970s (www.ticketfairy.com ) (sunlive.co.nz ). Named after Fred Soper (with his family’s donation), it carries local historical significance. Today the Reserve is prized for its relaxed, community-centric vibe: people often walk dogs, play casual sports or picnic there, reflecting its original intent as public open space (www.ticketfairy.com ) (sunlive.co.nz ). A key physical feature is its flat grass surface with panoramic views of Mauao – ideal for picnics or lawn games. Around 3,500 people can gather here at once (www.ticketfairy.com ). Recent upgrades (late 2024) added floodlights and fencing to improve safety and versatility (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). Instead of rows of seats, signature elements are its broad lawns and the lone pine tree Felder Soper planted (now a local landmark where he was memorialised). Unlike concrete stadia, Soper Reserve’s charm is that it stays true to a park atmosphere even when hosting concerts and festivals.
Events and Programming
Soper Reserve comes alive with events mostly in the warmer months (spring through summer). A mix of community gatherings, cultural festivals and music concerts regularly takes place on the field (www.ticketfairy.com ). For example, every early December the city holds “Tauranga’s Christmas in the Park,” a free family-friendly festival for charity. It features local live music, food stalls and kids’ activities all afternoon (www.sunlive.co.nz ) (creativebop.org.nz ). In Nov 2024 the venue debuted a rock-and-BBQ festival called “Tauranga Smoke,” headlined by Kiwi bands like Head Like A Hole and Tadpole (www.sunlive.co.nz ). It has also hosted electronic/dance events: an R18 drum’n’bass festival (“No Days Off,” Nov 2024) sold out with international DJs, and similar parties attract crowds into the night (www.ticketfairy.com ). Health and lifestyle expos are common too – for instance, “Vegan Vibes Tauranga” (Oct 2023 & 2024) drew about 2,000 people for organic food, eco-workshops and live music (www.sunlive.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Niche festivals have included a boutique gin tasting (“Gindulgence Tauranga,” Nov 2025, GA ~$69) (www.eventfinda.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ) and the new “Tauranga Irish Festival” (St Patrick’s weekend 2025, Celtic music & Guinness) (www.eventfinda.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Beyond festivals, Soper Reserve is often the site of local sporting events, fun runs or dog-training meets (the fenced field is the home of the Mt Maunganui Dog Training Club (www.tauranga.govt.nz )). Programming is eclectic – from casual daytime family fairs to after-dark concerts. In short, the Reserve is a grassy multi-purpose stage for Tauranga’s cultural calendar, offering everything from community fundraisers to commercially produced festivals (www.sunlive.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Tickets and Booking
There is no permanent box office at Soper Reserve. Instead, tickets for any paid event are sold online through ticket agencies or promoters (e.g. Eventfinda, TicketFairy, Flicket). Events are typically announced well in advance, with presales opening weeks or months before showtime (www.ticketfairy.com ). Popular concerts often sell out, so it’s wise to buy early. Ticket prices vary widely: free community events (like Christmas in the Park) rely on donations (e.g. gold-coin or non-perishable food) (creativebop.org.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ), while paid festivals may range from about NZ$15 (child/student or early-bird tickets) up to $70 or more for GA. Some festivals offer tiered pricing – for example, the Tauranga Irish Festival (Mar 2025) had GA at ~$60 and VIP passes around $120 (www.ticketfairy.com ). Always check the specific event’s website or listing for age limits, door-opening times and accepted payment methods. At a typical Soper Reserve festival, card is accepted at food and bar stalls, and cash is only needed for small vendors or donations. (A few events may allow limited door sales or charity collections at entry, but never count on singles being available at the last minute.) In short: plan ahead online, mark your calendar for on-sale dates, and grab tickets early to avoid disappointment (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Seating and Layout
Soper Reserve has no fixed seating – it’s a flat open lawn. At events, organisers erect a temporary main stage (usually at one end) and set up PA speaker towers to cover the field. The audience area is general admission, so concert-goers either stand or bring their own beach-style stools, folding chairs or picnic blankets (www.ticketfairy.com ). There are no sit-down tiers or indoor balconies, and no roof – so every spot on the grass has a similar view (weather permitting). If comfort is a concern, early arrivers often claim shady spots under perimeter trees or stake out preferred sightlines. Standing close to the stage amplifies the sound but can be noisy or tightly packed; farther back gives room to spread out but a slightly quieter audio experience. In recent events, small VIP sections or mosh-pit areas have been fenced off near the front, but otherwise the whole crowd mingles freely. Sightlines are generally good thanks to Murphy’s-flat terrain – just be mindful that fences at the very back of a fenced event may block a distant view, so for the clearest outlook keep moving forward when possible. Portable toilets (usually arranged in blocks near the main entrance or corners) define the rear boundary of most crowds. In essence, “best seats” at Soper Reserve are wherever you plant your blanket – but aim for inside the crowd so you’re not behind barriers.
Getting There and Parking
Soper Reserve is at 95 Newton Street, Mt Maunganui – just south of Aerodrome Road and near the base of Mauao (Mount Maunganui) (www.ticketfairy.com ). By car, the usual route is via SH2: take the Mount Maunganui exit (Devonport Road), follow Hewletts Road and Hull Road toward the Mount; Newton Street will be clearly signposted near Maunganui College. Parking around the Reserve is limited, especially on big event days (www.ticketfairy.com ). Some attendees rely on volunteer-run shuttles or park-&-ride services that event organisers may arrange. Otherwise, on-street parking is available on nearby streets (Newton St, Domain Road, Aerodrome Rd, Waitomo Ave), but spots fill up fast – most nearby spaces have $1–2/hr meters (www.ticketfairy.com ). We recommend arriving early to nab a free or meter spot before crowds arrive. Rideshare or taxis usually drop guests at the Newton Street entrance (near the front gates) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Public buses (Baybus) also serve the Mount Maunganui area; routes 22 and 27 in particular stop on Newton Street or Hull Road roughly 200–300m from the gates (www.ticketfairy.com ). If coming on foot, the Reserve is about a 15–20 minute walk from central Mt Maunganui village (along Newton or Domain Road) (www.ticketfairy.com ). (It’s about 25 minutes on foot from the Bay Road Beach car park.) The main entrance has wheelchair-friendly drop-off access, making it easier for mobility-restricted visitors to arrive at the gate (www.ticketfairy.com ). New lighting added in 2024 also means the walk-up path is safer on dusk-going-dark evenings (www.tauranga.govt.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Inside the Venue
“Inside” Soper Reserve simply means the open field itself and whatever setup event staff bring. Expect to enter through temporary gates (even for ‘free’ community events) and be subject to bag checks or security screening at larger concerts (www.ticketfairy.com ). The ground is all flat turf — so wear comfortable, sturdy shoes (no ramps, stairs or railings to worry about) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Once inside, food trucks, mobile bars and merchandise stalls will be scattered around (often near the entrance or along the edges) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Note that events often use cashless systems (card readers or token vouchers), so have a card handy or pre-purchase tokens if required. Restrooms are always portable toilets: typically arranged in one or more blocks (men’s and women’s separately) near the back corners or entrance (www.ticketfairy.com ). At family events like Christmas in the Park, you’ll see fun extras – e.g. face-painting booths or workshops – mingling with festival-goers (www.ticketfairy.com ). In general, the atmosphere during daytime events is casual and family-friendly, with kids running on the grass and attendees picnicking on blankets. For evening concerts, expect lively crowds and possibly standing-only zones or mosh pits (with security marshals on hand) (www.ticketfairy.com ). A few final notes: cell phone service is generally reliable across the field (major NZ networks cover Mauao), but there is no free Wi-Fi or charging stations on-site (www.ticketfairy.com ). Trash and recycling bins are provided, but New Zealand event etiquette encourages you to carry out anything you brought in. In short: treat it like a big outdoor park party!
Nearby Amenities
Soper Reserve sits just north of Mt Maunganui’s residential and light-commercial area. Within a 5–10 minute walk (Domain Road) you’ll find cafes and eateries – for example, the local Domain Café (and sunrise coffee spots) are handy for pre-show brunches. If you’re driving into Mount Village (about 2 km away), there’s a wide range of restaurants, bars and takeaways along The Strand and nearby Leonard Road – anything from casual fish’n’chips to sushi, chilli pubs or Mexican cantinas. Breweries and bars (for post-show drinks) are concentrated along Newton/Aerodrome Road and Courtney Place (look for spots like Brew Co or Mexicali). For overnight stays, the area offers something for every budget: domain motels and backpackers at the south end of Newton Street, mid-range inns (e.g. Gateway or Aquarius Motor Inn on Domain Road), and beachfront lodgings (such as Mt Beachside Holiday Park or the Belle Mer Apartments a short drive north) are all within a few minutes’ drive (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). Tauranga’s city centre and airport are also only about 10–15 minutes away by car. If you arrive far in advance of a show, you might catch sunrise on the beach or grab a last coffee at one of the village cafes a quick stroll from the Reserve. Late-night bus or Uber service back into central Tauranga is available, but it’s wise to check the last schedules on big event nights.
What Makes This Venue Special
Soper Reserve stands out because it’s a bit magical in its simplicity and community feel. Unlike purpose-built stadiums, it has no walls, no fixed chairs, and even a community dog park shares one end; yet it magically transforms into a lively concert venue when needed. Its heritage as a land “gifted…to be kept as a public reserve” in the early 1970s (sunlive.co.nz ) lends it a cherished status – locals fought to keep it unsold because they see it as civic treasure. You won’t find a fanciful roof or grand marquee here, but you will find pine trees and grass under your feet while rock or hip-hop bands play overhead. It’s rare in Tauranga to have such an intimate outdoor stage (capacity ~3,500) with a Mount-hills backdrop, which gives events a friendly, beach-town vibe. Many Tauranga artists and fans love its down-to-earth charm; some performers have called it a favourite because it feels like “playing in your own backyard.” Anecdotes abound – for example, in 2012 one local brewery CEO noted the field was full of joggers, dog-walkers and lunchtime walkers year-round (sunlive.co.nz ), highlighting how embedded it is in daily life. So, what makes Soper Reserve special? Its humble grass field hosts work by major promoters and local organizers alike, all while retaining the spirit of a neighborhood park. In one place you might find families picnicking under the sun one weekend and thousands of dancing festival-goers the next, which is a pretty unique combination in Tauranga’s scene.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The terrain is flat grass, making it mostly wheelchair- and stroller-friendly. There are no stairs or steep ramps at events (www.ticketfairy.com ). The main gate has a paved drop-off area for mobility access (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you need special accommodations (e.g. accessible toilets or seats), check in advance with event organizers. Bring ear protection and warm layers – even summer nights can get cool and sound levels high.
What to Bring & Wear: Treat it like a day at the park. Dress in layers (Tauranga weather can shift), and bring a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent and a rain jacket if rain is forecast. Comfortable shoes are a must on the grass (www.ticketfairy.com ). Pack foldable chairs or a picnic rug for seating, since none are provided. Cash is handy for small vendors, though most events also take cards. If attending a family event, you may want picnic food or drinks (if allowed); for concerts, plan to use the site’s food and bar trucks. Keep valuables to a minimum – you’ll be standing or walking around. Phone reception is normally fine, but power banks might be useful as there’s no on-site charging (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Coming Early: Gates can open well before advertised performance times (especially for fundraising or kids events) – arriving early secures easy parking and prime viewing spots. For big concerts, early birds catch the front row of the crowd. If you prefer a quiet walk-in, note that late arrivals must find spots on the edges. Also allow time for security checks pas through entry lines.
Age & ID: Check the event’s age policy. Some Soper Reserve festivals are all-ages (like Christmas in the Park) or family-friendly, while others are strictly R18 (See FAQ). If it’s an 18+ event, bring valid ID. Alcohol rules follow NZ law: you can’t bring your own; licensed bars are available inside party events. Smoking has been banned from all indoor public places in NZ, and many outdoor events also restrict smoking to certain zones.
Prohibited Items & Rules: Common sense applies: illegal substances, weapons, fireworks or unapproved drones are always banned. Glass bottles are usually not allowed. Pets are not permitted at ticketed events (the one exception is the local dog-training club exercising the field – but under “normal” event conditions, curfew). Large flags, laser pointers or megaphones should be left at home. Check your specific event’s “code of conduct” in advance to be sure.
Miscellaneous: Wi-Fi and lockers are not provided – download your e-tickets and charge devices ahead. If you have any medical or disability needs, plan how to manage them on grassground. Map out the restrooms (portable toilets) when you arrive. Lastly, watch for local bugs (like sandflies at dusk) and cover up if needed. By and large, Soper Reserve events are scrumptious Kiwi outdoor fun – go with an open spirit, grab a spot on the grass, and enjoy!
What is the capacity of Soper Reserve?
Soper Reserve is relatively small compared to big concert stadiums. It can accommodate on the order of a few thousand people at most. In practice, event organizers quote a capacity around 3,500 attendees (www.ticketfairy.com ). Because seating is on open grass, capacity depends on how tightly the crowd is packed.
Where is Soper Reserve located and what’s the address?
Soper Reserve is at 95 Newton Street, Mount Maunganui, Tauranga (at the foot of Mauao / Mount Maunganui). This is near the intersection of Domain Road and Aerodrome Road. It’s easy to find off State Highway 2 (the Mt Maunganui exit leads onto Hewletts Road and Hull Road; follow signs to Newton Street).
How do I get tickets to events at Soper Reserve?
There’s no physical box office at the Reserve. For any ticketed event, you purchase tickets online through the event promoter’s site. Common ticket sites used for Tauranga events include Eventfinda, Flicket, TicketFairy, etc. Keep an eye on local listings or social media pages for on-sale dates. Popular shows sell out, so buy as soon as tickets drop. There are often even early-bird specials. Very few tickets (if any) are sold at the gate, so it’s safest to book in advance.
What kind of seating is available at Soper Reserve?
There are no built-in seats, stands or roof. Soper Reserve is essentially one big open lawn. Attendees at concerts bring their own seating—things like folding chairs, beanbags, or picnic blankets. Many people simply stand on the grass. Because of this, it’s important to arrive prepared (e.g. bring a chair or blanket if you want to sit). If you prefer proximity to the stage, plan to get there early to claim a spot up-front on the grass.
Is Soper Reserve wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the venue is relatively accessible. The terrain is flat grass, so a wheelchair or stroller can roll across the field (note: it’s grass, not paved). The main public entrance on Newton Street has a paved drop-off area for wheelchair users (www.ticketfairy.com ). However, seating is on the ground level – so disabled seating areas must be set up by each event organizer. If you need special accommodations (like accessible toilets or reserved viewing), it’s best to check ahead with the event’s promoter. Also, the new lighting installed in 2024 makes navigating paths easier at dusk (www.tauranga.govt.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Is it OK to bring my dog or pet?
When the park is not in use for an event, it is a public reserve and dogs are generally allowed (on leash per city bylaws). In fact, a local dog-training club now operates in the fenced area of Soper Reserve (www.tauranga.govt.nz ). However, during public events or concerts, pets (other than service animals) are not permitted for safety reasons. Always check the specific event’s rules. At concerts with noise and crowds, it’s safest to leave your dog at home.
Where can I park and what does it cost?
Near-football parking is limited around the Reserve. On-street parking is available on nearby streets (Newton St, Domain Rd, Aerodrome Rd, etc.) with metered zones (roughly $1–$2 per hour) (www.ticketfairy.com ). These spaces fill up quickly for big events. Some shows arrange overflow parking lots or shuttles – always check the event page for that info. There are also residential areas a block or two away (check for any “No Event Day Parking” signs). For central Mt Maunganui Village, official lots exist, but they’re a longer walk. If possible, carpool or arrive early.
Are there toilets and food/drink options at the venue?
Yes, every event has basic amenities but they are all temporary. Portable toilets are brought in (usually clustered near the entrance or corners). Food trucks, snack stalls and licensed bars are common at events – selling meals, snacks and beverages. Events often go cashless, so credit/debit cards or event-specific tokens are accepted. There is no indoor concession stand or permanent kitchen, so you pay at whichever vendor is set up. It’s wise to bring small change, and note many events are kid-friendly with family fare on offer (or you can bring your own snacks if allowed by the event).
How do I get to Soper Reserve by public transport?
Baybus regional buses run routes through Mt Maunganui. The closest stops to Soper Reserve are along Newton Street and on Hull Road (near Aerodrome Rd). For example, routes 22 and 27 pass very near the field (www.ticketfairy.com ). From Tauranga city or Bayfair mall, you might transfer at Mt Maunganui town center. Check the Baybus website or Google Maps for the latest schedules. On event days nothing special changes – just walk from the bus stop to 95 Newton St (about a 2-3 minute walk from the Newton St stop).
What time should I arrive before a show?
For general admission events, it’s smart to arrive a bit early. Gates often open at least 30–60 minutes before the headliners start. For family festivals, the site might open as early as morning. Arriving early helps you find parking and pick a good spot on the grass. If you want front-row access for a concert, show up right at opening. At minimum, plan on arriving by the publicized gate opening time (some events list it on the ticket). Doors rarely open later than advertised, but music/talks will usually start on schedule once guests are let in.
Can I bring my own food or drinks to Soper Reserve events?
Policies vary by event. For large, organized events (like music festivals), BYO alcohol or packaged food is usually not allowed – you must buy onsite. Soft drinks or snacks might be okay (e.g. a sealed water bottle), but alcohol is sold only at licensed bars. Some smaller community events may be more relaxed (people sometimes picnic with their own food). When in doubt, check the specific event’s guidelines. Generally, bringing picnic snacks or a packed lunch is fine, but bulky coolers or glass bottles are not.
What happens if it rains? Are events ever cancelled?
Soper Reserve is an open-air, all-weather venue. Most events will proceed rain or shine (unless conditions are extremely hazardous). Organizers usually post any rain date or cancellation policies in their ticket info. You should assume that the show goes on and bring rain gear/ponchos. There is no indoor seating, so if showers are forecast, staying dry means wearing quick-dry clothes and perhaps sitting under any tree cover. Heavy storms might halt performances for safety, but light rain rarely stops outdoor concerts in New Zealand.
Is Soper Reserve used for sports? Can I watch a football or rugby game there?
Yes. Outside of festivals, Soper Reserve functions as a local sports field. You will often see community football, rugby, or touch games being played on the grass. There are no grandstands, so spectators usually sit or stand along the sidelines. If you want to watch a casual sports match or training session, you’re welcome – just be respectful to any clubs that might book the field. However, note that for major concerts the field will be fenced off, so no sports are played during those events.
Are there any restroom or coat-check facilities?
There is no built-in restroom or coat check – only portable toilets are provided during events (www.ticketfairy.com ). Events generally do not offer coat check services. Space is open, so you keep your belongings with you or in your chair. During winter or cold nights, make sure to bring a warm jacket as there’s nowhere to store it. Light rain or drizzles should be prepared for with your own umbrella or poncho, since coverage is nonexistent.
What kind of lighting and sound setup does Soper Reserve have?
Soper Reserve has no permanent sound system or stage lighting – everything is temporary for each event. In late 2024 the council added floodlights for safety, but concert lighting is still brought in by the promoter. For music shows, large speaker stacks or towers are positioned beside the stage so sound carries across the field. If you’re sensitive to loud volume, standing further back is quieter. After-dark events run entirely on generator power and rigged spotlights above the stage. Basically, assume listening from Soper Reserve will have typical outdoor festival sound and minimal ambient lighting beyond the stage and park lights.
Are mobile phones and cameras allowed?
Personal cameras and smartphones are generally allowed. Many people film and take pictures (shareable cameras or phones are fine). However, professional photography or video cameras (large DSLRs or equipment) may be prohibited at some events. Night events often have flash and safety concerns, so listen to security (typically, small point-and-shoot cameras or GoPros are tolerated, but anything on a tripod or big lens is suspect). Drones are usually not allowed without a permit, given the proximity to Mount Beach Airport. It’s always safest to ask at the gate or look at the event’s FAQ.
What if I get hungry or thirsty – can I bring water?
You can usually bring a sealed bottle of water or refill at water stations if available. Food must typically be purchased inside from vendors. If an event is big, it’s wise to stay hydrated; carrying a reusable bottle (to refill at a tap) is fine. Many people eat beforehand or picnic with simple snacks (as long as they comply with any glass/alcohol rules). Because festival food can get pricey, packing a light snack isn’t uncommon, but avoid bringing large meals if alcohol is sold (BYO alcohol is almost never allowed) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
