About San Fran
San Fran is a renowned live music club and bar located at 171 Cuba Street in Wellington’s Te Aro district. Housed in the old Edilson’s Building (built in 1928) (www.ticketfairy.com ), this two-storey heritage venue has a gritty Art Deco façade with a distinctive open-air balcony added in 2003 (www.ticketfairy.com ). The performance space is up the stairs on the first floor and by Fire/Building Code holds roughly 400–500 people (www.audioculture.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ), making it a mid-sized club (intimate by concert-venue standards). Formerly the San Francisco Bath House and later a nightclub called Indigo, it reopened as “San Fran” in 2014 (www.setlist.fm ). Today it’s celebrated as one of Wellington’s most iconic music venues – locals even call it “the capital’s home base for live music and comedy” (www.ticketfairy.com ). Its history is rich (from jazz club to comedy hub) and the building’s graffiti-lined Green Room is an attraction in its own right (www.audioculture.co.nz ). Above all, San Fran matters for its legacy: it has nurtured legendary NZ acts and remains a cultural landmark of Cuba Street nightlife.
Events and Programming
San Fran’s calendar is packed with events almost nightly. The venue typically hosts over 100 shows a year (www.ticketfairy.com ), spanning every musical genre – from hip-hop, metal and punk to reggae, indie rock and electronic – as well as comedy and acoustic nights (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Local Kiwi bands often headline shows (for example The Black Seeds, The Datsuns, The D4 and The Phoenix Foundation have all played here (www.ticketfairy.com )), while touring international and pan-genre acts stop here between festivals and stadiums. Weekly themed nights are a Wellington staple: for many years San Fran has run an ’80s retro dance party called “Atomic” (continuing a tradition from its Indigo days) (www.ticketfairy.com ), plus midweek community events. Recent lineups have included surf-rock legends like Donavon Frankenreiter and underground metal acts like Blood Incantation on the same month, as well as reggae, electronic, folk and world music tours. Comedy is also part of the mix – veteran Kiwi comedians and open-mic performers run shows here (Flight of the Conchords famously tested material at early San Francisco Bathhouse shows, and Wellington comedy nights still draw lively audiences). In short, you’ll find a very eclectic program: big touring concerts, local cover bands, specialty DJ sets (often after a late metal gig), and club nights. Ticket prices vary with the act – many local gigs fall in the NZD 20–40 range, while larger international shows often run $50 or more (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for San Fran shows must be bought in advance through official outlets (the club itself does not sell tickets in person before the event) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Typically you’ll purchase online or through a local ticketing site referenced on the show poster or promoter’s page (www.ticketfairy.com ). For most gigs there’s no walk-up box office: if a show isn’t already sold out, you can try buying door tickets on the night at the listed price (www.ticketfairy.com ). Highly popular acts (international stars or well-known NZ artists) tend to sell out quickly, so it’s smart to grab tickets as soon as they go on sale – often weeks or months ahead. Watch for presale codes or venue newsletter announcements to catch deals. Some specialized gigs might offer a few VIP or front-row packages, but these are rare. A good rule: follow San Fran’s official social media or join mailing lists for advance notice on when tickets drop, and be ready to pay in full (including any online transaction fees) to lock in your spot. If a show does sell out, you can sometimes check local ticket exchanges or social reselling, but the safest bet is early purchase. On the day of a gig, the door typically opens about 30–60 minutes before the advertised start time (www.ticketfairy.com ) (check the event info). If tickets remain, you can queue and buy at the door in cash or card; otherwise the show is likely sold out.
Seating and Layout
San Fran is essentially a standing-room venue with a simple two-level layout (www.ticketfairy.com ). The ground level (street level) contains the entrance lobby and long bar along one wall, but the concert floor is upstairs. Head up the stairs and you enter a flat, column-free main space with the stage at one end (www.ticketfairy.com ). There are no fixed seats on the floor – it’s a general-admission standing area designed for a few hundred people. Along the back wall is a raised balcony area that wraps partially around the hall (www.ticketfairy.com ). This balcony is partially open-air (with large windows and sun exposure when weather permits) and is furnished with benches or couches (www.ticketfairy.com ). While not tiered like a proper theatre, the balcony offers a higher vantage point toward the stage for those who prefer to sit. The stage itself is low at one end of the hall. Because live music license rules apply, by default all tickets are GA standing, but San Fran can set up a small number of chairs along the side wall if needed for accessible seating (www.ticketfairy.com ). In practice, for most shows you’ll stand on the floor (or lounge on the balcony couches) – the very front of the stage is reserved for eager concertgoers. Acoustically the room is raw but loud, and sightlines are generally good from anywhere on the main floor; you just should arrive early if you want to be at the front. The famous balcony seating is a unique spot – many patrons head upstairs during breaks to soak up the sun on the sofas or meet friends while still catching the room’s energy.
Getting There and Parking
San Fran sits on Cuba Street in central Te Aro, Wellington, just a short walk from the main CBD. The exact address is 171 Cuba Street (near the corner of Dixon or Boulcott Street). By public transport it’s very accessible: the venue is only a few minutes’ walk from the Wellington Railway Station and central bus exchanges (www.sanfran.co.nz ). Dozens of bus routes serve Cuba Street and nearby Lambton Quay – for example buses on lines 1, 2 or 3 will drop you within a block or two, and many city routes pass through the Courtenay Place area one block south. Wellington’s “central station” (the interchange on Bunny Street) is only 800m away, so if you arrive by intercity bus or train you can stroll or catch a local bus to Cuba Street. After 11pm public transport options are limited (city buses stop by midnight), so most people either walk to nearby taxis or use a rideshare service home. Taxi ranks can be found around Dixon Street (just a block north of the venue) or along Courtney Place; drop-off points for Uber/Ola are easy on Cuba Street itself. By car there is no private lot for San Fran, but there are several paid parking options in Te Aro. Street parking (metered or coupon) runs along Cuba and surrounding streets, though space is limited on event nights. There are public car parks within a few blocks: e.g. a multi-storey car park at 26 Marion Street, plus others at 16 Bute Street (Care Park), 25 Garrett Street (PrimeParking) and nearby lots on Taranaki Street or Victoria Street (www.sanfran.co.nz ). Parkopedia lists even more garages within 5–10 minutes’ walk. Rates vary (roughly $8–$18 for two hours depending on the lot (en.parkopedia.com )), but they are typically cheaper and more secure than street meters. In short: take public transit when you can, or allow a few extra minutes to find street or lot parking if driving. Cuba Street is pedestrianised as it approaches Courtney Place, so rideshare drivers often drop passengers at convenient corners just outside the pedestrian zone.
Inside the Venue
Entering San Fran feels like stepping into a classic Wellington rock club. Expect a brief security check at the door – tickets will be scanned and IDs checked if needed (it’s an 18+ venue after dark (www.sanfran.co.nz )). The staff are generally friendly and the crowd relaxed. Inside, one wall of the hall is lined with a long bar serving a wide selection of drinks: local craft beers, national draughts, wines, ciders and a few cocktails (www.ticketfairy.com ). Because one of San Fran’s owners was a brewer, their own craft beers are often on tap alongside mainstream brands (www.audioculture.co.nz ). You can pay by card or cash. A small kitchen is open during shows (usually burgers, sandwiches, fries, snacks) so you can grab food without leaving the venue (www.ticketfairy.com ). The atmosphere is dark and energetic – club and stage lights sweep over a concrete floor and brick walls plastered with band posters and graffiti (www.ticketfairy.com ). If the gig allows, DJs may spin between sets (a nod to San Fran’s history as a dance club) and sometimes guests help themselves at the turntables, especially on Sunday sessions. The building has no air-conditioning, but the large balcony windows can let in fresh air – nevertheless, the room can get very warm and sweaty once packed. Restrooms are accessed upstairs (coin-operated soap, and often a water tap or fountain nearby (www.ticketfairy.com )). There is a small paid coat/bag check at the bar ($2NZ per item) (www.ticketfairy.com ). You’ll see people dressed casually – band T-shirts, jeans and comfortable shoes are the norm (www.ticketfairy.com ). Feel free to use your phone quietly (wifi is not provided and cell signal can be patchy) (www.ticketfairy.com ), but note that cameras should avoid flash and video recording of the performance is usually discouraged. On larger shows you’ll also find a merchandise table near or under the balcony selling band T-shirts and CDs. The bartenders are well-practised and keep a steady line going; however, drinks should still often be paid in cash on busy nights. Overall, San Fran’s interior is unpolished and intimate – a friendly club space with a worn-in vibe. If the hall is full, the bass will thump and you’ll likely want earplugs (the PA is “loud rock music level” (www.ticketfairy.com )). Many attendees actually hop up to the outdoor balcony area for a breather and a couch seat when they need a break from the crowd.
Nearby Amenities
Cuba Street is Wellington’s bohemian hub, so literally dozens of cafés, restaurants and bars are within a short stroll of San Fran. For pre-show dining, you can walk a block toward Courtney Place or a block in the other direction and find every cuisine imaginable. Popular nearby eateries include Fidel’s Café (one of the city’s famous all-day brunch spots), Cuban Brothers (a Latin-themed grill), Aunty Mena’s (vegetarian/vegan Caribbean cuisine) and various Asian noodle or dumpling bars (www.ticketfairy.com ) (neatplaces.co.nz ). Cuban Street also has several great Italian (Scopa, 1154 pasta, Ombra) and Middle Eastern spots (Kisa, Rasa) within two blocks (neatplaces.co.nz ) (neatplaces.co.nz ). If you prefer quick bites, there are burger places and pizzerias like Bostonian, plus Malaysian curry at Little Penang or classic fish-and-chips around the corner (www.ticketfairy.com ). After a show, you’re spoiled for choice on late-night snacks: takeaways like kebabs and mini-Doughboys are a short walk away on Vivian and Courtenay Streets. For drinks, the gamut ranges from craft beer pubs to cocktail lounges nearby. Golden Dawn and Sneaky Beaver brewpubs (on Ghuznee Street just two blocks north) pour excellent local brews (www.ticketfairy.com ). Classic Cuba Street bars on the same block include Left Bank (a neo-tavern with pub feel) and Purple Haze (cocktails and beers) (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you fancy a sit-down bar experience, Whitetail Bar (at the corner of Cuba & Dixon) and the stylish Logan Brown Bar (at Abel Smith Street) are a few minutes’ walk away. Other late-night venues and clubs line Courtney Place and Manners Street just a block south.
In terms of lodging, there are plenty of hotels nearby. Within a 5–10 minute walk are chain hotels like the Ibis Budget Wellington on Cuba, Novotel on The Terrace, and the James Cook Grand Chancellor near Lambton Quay (www.ticketfairy.com ). More boutique options include the Cambridge Hotel on Hobson Street, and the budget-friendly “Wellington on Cuba” motel literally half a block north on Dixon (www.ticketfairy.com ). Backpacker hostels and the YWCA are a few blocks further toward Courtney Place (ideal for budget travelers). For luxury stays, the InterContinental and QT Wellington are about a 10- to 15-minute stroll from San Fran. In short, any hotel in Te Aro or neighboring Courtenay/Manners area will be an easy walk of an evening show. Finally, note that Wellington’s late-night buses (the CityLink network) run on many routes only until about midnight (last trains to suburbs leave Wellington Station around 11pm) (www.ticketfairy.com ), so the best way home after late gigs is typically by taxi or rideshare. Luckily taxis can be flagged down on Dixon Street or booked via an app, and Cuba Street is generally well-lit and busy on weekend nights (though travelling in a pair or group is always wise) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
What Makes This Venue Special
San Fran’s special character comes from its storied past and its central role in Wellington’s creative scene. The building itself is nearly 100 years old, and its walls have housed countless iterations of nightlife – from a 1920’s shoe factory and rifle range to the infamous Ali Baba’s disco of the 1960s and 70s (www.audioculture.co.nz ). Artists mention it as a “chameleon cavern” – it has an underground vibe that changes with every show. Many Wellingtonians fondly recall its days as the San Francisco Bath House sauna, or its rebirth as “Indigo” in the 1990s when Flight of the Conchords and Taika Waititi honed their acts there (www.audioculture.co.nz ). As its audio heritage article notes, the graffiti-scribbled Green Room backstage is steeped in rock history (www.audioculture.co.nz ). Over the decades San Fran has morphed from sweaty subterranean dive to a polished but still grungy club – even retaining the “open-air dance balcony” from the Disco era (www.audioculture.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). The current owners (now Live Nation) have improved sound and added amenities, but the raw charm remains. It earned the trust of Wellington’s music community: in early 2020, fans rallied to raise $50,000 to keep it alive during the Covid shutdown, making San Fran the first local club to hit its crowdfunding goal (www.audioculture.co.nz ). The venue’s deep ties show in the acts who love it – New Zealand bands like Jakob have called San Fran one of their favourite places to play (willnotfade.com ). Beyond music, it has hosted club events, comedy festivals, art shows and even movie premiere after-parties: decades ago it held the after-after-party for a Lord of the Rings premiere thanks to its 23-hour liquor license (www.audioculture.co.nz ). In a way, San Fran embodies Wellington’s creative soul: it’s not just a stage, but a validating home for local culture and a historical landmark amid Cuba Street’s vibrancy (www.audioculture.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Few venues have such a legacy of historic nights (including the 2017 “Last Waltz” reunion for retired nightclub crowds) or such strong community support, which is why both artists and audiences love it so much.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Because San Fran’s performance area is up one staircase on the first floor, the venue has very limited wheelchair access (www.sanfran.co.nz ). If you or someone in your party has mobility needs, contact the venue ahead of time; in some cases staff will make special arrangements. Seating is normally general admission standing only, though San Fran may provide a few front-row chairs or space on request for patrons who can’t stand (www.sanfran.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Restrooms are upstairs near the stage. Note that the liquor licence is supervised: under-18s are allowed only when accompanied by a guardian after school hours (www.sanfran.co.nz ), and of course no one under 18 can buy alcohol.
What to Bring: Carry your ID and cash/card for drinks (cards are accepted at the bar (www.ticketfairy.com ); small bills for leisures). A small bag or backpack is fine, but large luggage is discouraged and will likely be searched or checked (there’s a $2 coat/bag check service (www.ticketfairy.com )). Umbrellas or big parcels can be cumbersome in the crowd. It’s wise to bring a light jacket even in summer – Wellington evenings can be cool, and you’ll likely want to stash outerwear at coat-check or under the bar during the show. See the ticket for the official door time (usually 30–60 minutes before showtime) and plan to arrive then; arriving at opening time is the best way to secure a spot near the stage or on the balcony. The venue recommends arriving early anyway so you can pay for a locker or grab a drink before the band starts. On The Day: San Fran can get very busy and warm once the band is on, so stay hydrated. The taps behind the bar and a water fountain by the toilets provide drinking water. Note that indoor smoking is banned under New Zealand law, but people sometimes stand on the balcony to smoke during breaks.
Venue Rules: The dress code is informal – you will fit right in wearing a band T-shirt, jeans and boots (www.ticketfairy.com ). Photography with small cameras is usually allowed, but flash photography is often discouraged during performances (www.ticketfairy.com ). Audio or video recording of acts is typically prohibited unless explicitly OK’d. Behave respectfully: don’t climb on stage or lean on the speakers. Security is present at all events; they may do a quick bag check at the door, especially for larger concerts (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you have any post or lost-item questions, they can be directed to the venue staff. Finally, the PA is powerful – earplugs are often recommended by gig-goers for comfort (many reviews note the volume is “rock level” loud (www.ticketfairy.com )).
Other Tips: Keep your phone charged if you can (there’s no public Wi-Fi and phone signal can be spotty (www.ticketfairy.com )). Check San Fran’s social media or local event guides to see if a concert has age limits or special entry rules. Most people dress casually and buy drinks, so it’s a convivial atmosphere. After the show, the vast array of bars on Cuba or Courtenay Place means you can keep the night going if you wish. Transportation: late buses stop near midnight, but taxi ranks on Dixon Street and ride-share services are plentiful. For safety, Cuba Street stays relatively busy at night – though it’s still wise to travel in pairs if you’re heading far into the suburbs after dark (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of San Fran?
San Fran is a mid-sized live-music club. After the 2014 renovations it can hold roughly 400–500 people (www.audioculture.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). It feels like a packed club rather than a huge theatre, ensuring an intimate atmosphere even at capacity.
Where do I buy tickets for shows at San Fran?
Tickets are sold online through official ticket outlets or the promoters’ websites (you’ll usually find links on San Fran’s official site or social media). There is no walk-up box office for advance sales (www.ticketfairy.com ). If an event isn’t yet sold out, you may be able to buy tickets at the door on show night (www.ticketfairy.com ). For popular shows, it’s wise to purchase well in advance.
Can I buy tickets at the venue?
San Fran does not have advance box-office sales. You cannot buy tickets in person before show night (www.ticketfairy.com ). However, if there are unsold tickets, door sales are usually available on the evening of the performance at the listed price (www.ticketfairy.com ) (cash and card).
Are there reserved seats, or is it standing only?
San Fran is primarily a general-admission venue with standing space for all ticket holders (www.ticketfairy.com ). There are no fixed chairs on the main floor – everyone stands on the dance floor. The exception is the winding balcony at the back, which has a few benches and couches for seating (www.ticketfairy.com ). Any “seated” area is informal, so if you need a chair (for example, for accessibility reasons), you should request one in advance. By default, plan to stand or socialize on the balcony.
What are the best spots to watch a show?
The most popular spots are on the main floor up against the stage; arriving early lets you claim a front-center position. If you want a sit-down break or a bird’s-eye view, the raised balcony has bench seating and couches, giving you a clear sightline while being slightly removed from the crowd (www.ticketfairy.com ). Note that the balcony railing and any big speakers may partly block the view if you’re at the very back, so mid-balcony or front-floor are ideal for uninterrupted sightlines. Wherever you stand, the sound is loud and strong throughout the venue.
How do I get to San Fran using public transport?
San Fran is very centrally located. The Wellington Railway Station and main bus hub are just a few minutes’ walk away (www.sanfran.co.nz ). Many high-frequency city buses stop along nearby stretches of Lambton Quay and Courtney Place (lines 1, 2, 3, etc.) that put you at the Cuba Street intersection. Simply alight at Willis, Lambton Quay or Courtney Place and walk a block to Cuba Street. After midnight, the last trains and buses usually have already departed, so it’s best to grab a taxi from Dixon Street or book an Uber/Ola to get back (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Is there parking available at San Fran?
There is no parking lot at the venue itself. Street parking in Cuba Street and the Te Aro area is managed by council meters or parking coupons. However, several pay parking buildings are within a 5–10 minute walk. For example, lots at 26 Marion Street, 16 Bute Street (Care Park) or 25 Garrett Street (PrimeParking) are nearby (www.sanfran.co.nz ). These multi-storey car parks typically charge around $8–$12 for two hours (Parkopedia confirms rates from ~$8–$18 for a 2H stay in different lots) (en.parkopedia.com ). Plan to arrive early if you’re driving, or consider taking public transport/taxis to avoid searching for a spot.
Is San Fran wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, San Fran is not easily wheelchair-accessible due to its performance space being on the second floor with stair access (www.sanfran.co.nz ). There is no ramp or elevator to the main stage area. The venue advises guests with mobility needs to contact them in advance so that staff can try to assist or make special arrangements (www.sanfran.co.nz ). For example, they might allow seating at the front floor for someone who can’t stand. But by default, the lack of lift access means wheelchair users will face difficulty.
Can I bring a bag or camera into San Fran?
Small bags (daypacks or purses) are generally allowed but may be checked by security, especially on big event nights (www.ticketfairy.com ). Large backpacks or suitcases are discouraged and will likely be refused entry or asked to be stored in cloakroom. As for cameras, casual photography is usually fine, but video recording of the performance is normally not allowed. If you do take photos, store-away flash – bright flashes are often requested to stay off during live acts (www.ticketfairy.com ). Most people simply use phones quietly during songs, which is generally acceptable.
Is there a coat check at the venue?
Yes. San Fran provides a cloakroom service at the bar area for a small fee ($2 NZD per item) (www.ticketfairy.com ). You can drop off coats or bags there until the end of the show. This is handy if you’re wearing layers on your way in – the venue is known to get quite warm once packed, so storing outerwear downstairs is convenient.
Are there age restrictions at San Fran?
San Fran operates under a supervised liquor licence. In practice, this means the venue is 18+ after early evening. Minors can attend but only if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian (www.sanfran.co.nz ). (For example, family-friendly or early shows often allow kids with guardians; by late night it’s strictly 18+.) Under-18 guests cannot purchase alcohol and must stay with their guardian. Valid photo ID (e.g. driver’s licence or passport) may be checked at the door for anyone who appears under 25.
What facilities are inside San Fran (foods, Wi-Fi, etc.)?
San Fran has a full bar and a small kitchen that operates during shows (www.ticketfairy.com ). You can expect typical bar food – burgers, fries, sandwiches, snacks – available at the counter. The kitchen is open every night there’s an event (www.sanfran.co.nz ). There is no club Wi-Fi provided, and cell phone reception can be weak inside the thick walls (www.ticketfairy.com ). A water fountain or tap near the restrooms usually lets you refill a bottle. For cash, there’s at least one ATM nearby on Cuba Street, but the bar accepts cards.
When should I arrive at San Fran for a show?
The event ticket will state the door time – that’s when they let people in. It’s best to be there right at (or a little before) that time to get a good spot, especially on the floor. Expect doors to open about 30–60 minutes before the first act (www.ticketfairy.com ). For popular shows, expect a line before opening. Plan to arrive at the stated time with your tickets or e-tickets ready. If you arrive very late you may have difficulty getting close to the stage.
Does San Fran have a balcony area?
Yes. San Fran’s upper-level balcony wraps along the back wall of the venue (www.ticketfairy.com ). It’s partially open-air (with big windows to the street) and furnished with benches and sofas, making it a popular chill-out spot. From the balcony you get a raised view of the stage while being able to sit or stand. Many people use the balcony for resting in the sun or socializing between songs, and it’s an excellent vantage point if the floor is very crowded. (www.ticketfairy.com )
