Events at The Secret Garden, Waihi Beach

What is The Secret Garden?

The Secret Garden in Waihi Beach (Bay of Plenty, New Zealand) is a one-of-a-kind venue that’s part tiki bar, part café, and part live music oasis. It’s an outdoor tropical garden venue tucked behind the town’s main shops – truly a “hidden gem” where lush palms and colorful blooms create a mini jungle atmosphere. This intimate spot can host a few hundred people at most, giving it a cozy, community vibe. Visitors can relax in Balinese-style huts and Mexican cabanas scattered along winding garden paths, or lounge on bean bags under the trees. The vibe is laid-back and family-friendly – you can even bring your dog (or pet parrot!) along. Beyond its quirky charm, The Secret Garden has become a vibrant hub for Waihi Beach’s social and cultural scene. Locals and travelers alike flock here for good food, tropical cocktails, and especially the live entertainment. It’s not just a café; it’s a grassroots venue where live music, art, and community events thrive in an open-air, beach-town setting. In recent years, the original creator returned to manage the place, revitalizing it with even more seating and creative décor. The result is a truly unique venue that blends island-inspired design with Kiwi hospitality. Whether you stop by for a daytime coffee or a lively evening show, The Secret Garden offers an experience that’s equal parts chill hangout and magical escape – a cornerstone of the Waihi Beach vibe.

Events and Shows at The Secret Garden

Live events are the heart of The Secret Garden. The venue hosts a range of performances year-round, often showcasing local talent and touring independent artists. Expect something happening most weeks – from acoustic duo performances and reggae bands, to upbeat DJ nights that turn the garden into a dance floor under the stars. Weekends typically feature live bands or DJs. For example, Saturday nights in summer might bring a popular regional band or a themed party (they’ve held events like a “Summer Solstice” dance night with house and techno DJs). These shows transform the lush garden into an intimate concert setting, with audiences grooving among the palm fronds and tiki torches.

Open Mic Sundays are a beloved weekly tradition. Every Sunday afternoon (usually around 4:30pm till late), The Secret Garden invites anyone with musical talent to jump on stage. It’s a free event and family-friendly, drawing aspiring singers, guitarists, and even travelers passing through. The open mic gives the venue a relaxed, communal feel – you never know if you’ll catch a local teen’s first performance or a surprise set from a seasoned musician on holiday. It’s a great way to experience the local music culture.

Beyond weekly gigs, The Secret Garden also hosts special events and themed nights. These have included everything from trivia quiz nights with well-known hosts (e.g. a comedy trivia night with NZ comedian Ben Hurley) to community gatherings like clothing swap evenings. During peak season (summer holidays), the event calendar really heats up – think New Year’s Eve parties, holiday weekend specials, and possibly small festival-style events. In late December and January it’s not uncommon to see multiple events in one week. Notable past performances have ranged from indie singer-songwriters (such as Maggie Cocco’s soulful set in 2023) to high-energy DJ appearances (like DJ Dylan C headlining an Anniversary Weekend party in 2025). Even when bigger names play, the shows at The Secret Garden keep an intimate feel – artists often mingle with the crowd after sets, and the whole night feels like a backyard jam session.

Event frequency and ticket prices: Many events at The Secret Garden are free entry or “koha” (donation) based, especially for local bands and open mics. Some special concerts or dance parties have tickets in the NZ$10–$20 range, keeping things affordable. On busy holiday dates or special tours, buying a ticket may guarantee you entry since the venue’s capacity is limited. Generally, shows start early in the evening (6–7pm) and wrap up by about 10pm to respect the neighborhood’s quiet hours. This “early but awesome” timing means you get lively entertainment without a late-night slog – a format appreciated by many visitors. Whether you drop in for a casual acoustic set or a packed DJ night, events at The Secret Garden are all about good vibes and creating memorable moments in a truly unique setting.

Getting Tickets

Tickets for The Secret Garden’s events can usually be obtained online or at the venue, depending on the show. Many regular gigs – like local bands on a Friday or the Sunday open mic – don’t require any ticket at all (just show up and enjoy). For bigger or special events (for instance, a summer touring act or a themed festival night), tickets are often sold in advance through online platforms. The Secret Garden typically announces these events on their website and social media, along with links or instructions on where to buy tickets. It’s a good idea to follow their official Facebook or Instagram for updates, since popular events can sell out, given the venue’s limited size.

When do tickets go on sale? Usually, event tickets are released a few weeks to a couple of months ahead of time. For a big summer event (say a New Year’s party or a well-known band’s gig), keep an eye out early – these might be posted at the start of the season. Local community events (like trivia nights or swaps) might not require tickets at all, or may just ask for a small door fee on the night. If you’re eyeing a marquee show at The Secret Garden, it’s wise to purchase your tickets online as soon as you see the announcement. The venue’s intimate capacity means popular events can reach capacity quickly.

Tips for securing tickets: If an upcoming concert is creating buzz, try to buy in advance – online ticketing sites are the usual outlet (the venue often uses local NZ ticket platforms). In cases where you miss out on presales, there may be a handful of door sales on the night, but it’s first-come, first-served. Arriving early is key for those; occasionally a line forms outside for big events. Another strategy: check if the Waihi Beach Information Centre or local shops sell tickets for certain events – in small towns, sometimes physical outlets have a few. And if all else fails for a sold-out gig, you can monitor The Secret Garden’s social pages for any last-minute ticket releases or people looking to re-sell tickets. Fortunately, because so many events here are low-key and community-oriented, accessing a great night out at The Secret Garden is usually straightforward – often as simple as walking in and finding a seat.

Best Seats and Viewing Areas

Seating at The Secret Garden is general admission and delightfully unconventional. There is no assigned seating chart – instead, the venue’s garden layout offers a mix of cozy nooks and open areas to enjoy the show. Here’s what to expect and how to snag your ideal spot:

• Balinese Huts and Cabanas: Scattered around the garden are small thatched huts and cabana-style shelters. Each has a couple of bean bags or benches and a low table. These spots are perfect if you want a comfortable, chill experience. They provide a semi-private feel – tucked amid foliage – and are great for a small group of friends. The view from a hut might be partially obscured by plants or other decor, and you won’t be right up front, but you’ll have a cozy atmosphere. These fill up fast, so arriving early gives you a chance to claim one of these coveted little lounges.
• Front-of-Stage Area: Near the front, there isn’t traditional seating; it’s usually a small open area (often grassy or decked) where people stand or dance. If seeing the performers up close and feeling the energy is your priority, you’ll want to be here. During lively concerts, this area becomes a dance floor under the stars. There may be a few bar stools or high tables off to the side, but mostly it’s standing room at the front. The acoustics are naturally loudest and most immersive here, as you’re closest to the speakers. Just keep in mind you’ll be on your feet and in the thick of the crowd – great for energetic shows!
• Tables and Open Seating: The Secret Garden also offers standard picnic-style tables and chairs near the bar and around the garden. These aren’t fixed in rows like a theater; instead, they’re casually placed wherever space allows. Grabbing a table gives you a place to set your drinks and food. From some tables you’ll have a decent sightline to the stage, while others further back or tucked in corners might have limited views (you might be watching through palm fronds or around fellow patrons). The upside is comfort – you can sit and chat while enjoying the music in the background. If having a seat is important to you, aim to come early and secure a table in a spot with a clear view.
• Bean Bag & Lawn Seating: On sunny afternoons and relaxed event days, the venue often throws colorful bean bag chairs on the lawn. These are a fun way to lounge and listen. You’ll be low to the ground and super comfy, though possibly farther from the stage. The trade-off is a laid-back vibe – picture yourself sipping a cocktail, reclining in a bean bag, with live music floating through the trees. If it’s a crowded night, bean bags might be moved aside, but during quieter gigs they’re a fantastic option.

Best spots for sound: Generally, positioning yourself near the center of the garden, facing the stage, yields the best audio experience. The Secret Garden’s sound system is solid for its size – they have quality speakers set up so that music reaches all corners of the venue. That said, the acoustics are open-air; if you sit way at the back by the entrance or behind a thick cluster of plants, the sound may be a bit softer or muffled by nature’s “decor.” For audiophiles, anywhere in front of the bar area and not too far off to the sides is a sweet spot.

General Admission flow: Since everything is first-come, you’re free to move around. Many people start at a table or hut for dinner and drinks, then migrate forward when the show kicks into gear. There’s no strict division of sections – it’s a fluid space. If you prefer to sit through a show, grab a seat early. If you love dancing, you can hang back until the music starts and then head right up front. The atmosphere is relaxed, so you won’t find an aggressive “seat saving” culture here, but courtesy is always appreciated if you’re sharing table space or squeezing past others.

VIP and special areas: The Secret Garden isn’t a venue with formal VIP boxes or luxury suites – its charm is in the egalitarian, everyone-together setting. On occasion, for private functions or a band’s reserved guests, a particular hut or section might be roped off, but that’s rare. For the most part, every guest has access to the same variety of seating. If you do have accessibility needs (for example, needing a chair rather than standing), the staff are very accommodating – they might help find you a comfortable spot to ensure you enjoy the show.

Where to avoid: Honestly, there are few “bad” spots, but a couple considerations: If you end up very near the speakers (say right by the stage edges), it can be quite loud – bring ear protection if you’re sensitive. Conversely, way at the back near the entrance gate, people come and go and might chat, so it’s less immersive for listening. Also, if it’s drizzling and you’re not under a hut umbrella, you’ll want to move – remember, much of the venue is open sky. In summary, choose your adventure: up-front energy, mid-garden balance, or laid-back in a leafy corner – The Secret Garden offers it all in one intimate space.

Getting to The Secret Garden

Address: The Secret Garden is located at 17 Wilson Road, Waihi Beach 3611, New Zealand. Wilson Road is the main small shopping strip in Waihi Beach village, so the venue is right in the heart of things – yet it’s easy to miss because it’s tucked behind other buildings. Look for signage or a tiki-themed entrance. The entrance is like a gateway leading off the street into a lush back-area; you might spot a tropical mural or decorations hinting at what’s inside. If you’re unsure, ask a local shop – everyone knows this hidden oasis.

Driving and Parking: Waihi Beach is a car-friendly seaside town. If you’re driving from out of town, it’s about a 2-hour drive southeast of Auckland, or under an hour north from Tauranga. Once you arrive, parking is usually straightforward. There’s no dedicated parking lot for The Secret Garden, but plenty of free street parking nearby. Wilson Road and the intersecting side streets have spots you can use (just be mindful of any posted time limits during busy summer days – generally it’s pretty relaxed). On a busy evening or in peak holiday season, these street spots can fill up, so it’s wise to get there a bit early to snag one nearby. Alternatively, there’s a larger beachside parking area down the road by the beach (around Brighton Reserve, a short walk away) which can serve as overflow parking.

Public Transit: Public transportation directly to Waihi Beach is limited, as it’s a small community. There is a local bus that runs a few times a week between Waihi town and Waihi Beach, but services may be infrequent (approximately a 10–15 minute ride). The nearest major bus stop for intercity buses is in Waihi township (about 10 km inland). From Waihi town, you’d likely need to taxi or shuttle to the beach if a bus isn’t aligning with your schedule. In short, if you’re coming from afar, the easiest way is to drive or carpool.

Rideshare and Taxi: Ridesharing services like Uber or Ola are not widely available in Waihi Beach due to its small population, especially in the off-season. During summer you might find a few operators, but don’t count on being able to hail a ride on demand late at night. Instead, if you need a ride, pre-arrange with one of the local cab companies or shuttles. The Secret Garden’s staff or the Waihi Beach Information Centre can provide a taxi contact if needed. A designated driver in your group is a good plan if you’re staying farther than walking distance.

Walking and Cycling: If you’re staying anywhere in Waihi Beach village, walking to The Secret Garden is a great option. The town is small and flat, making for an easy stroll. From the beachfront area (by the surf club or popular Flatwhite Café), it’s only about 5–10 minutes’ walk up Wilson Road. At night, the streets are reasonably lit, but it’s always a good idea to have a flashlight (or phone light) for any darker patches on your way back. Biking is also viable – you could lock a bicycle by the entrance (just find a fence or pole). There isn’t a formal bike rack, but Waihi Beach is generally a safe place to leave a locked bike for a couple of hours.

Once you arrive at 17 Wilson Road, you’ll likely pass through a gate or alleyway that opens up into the Secret Garden itself. It feels like stepping through a portal – one moment you’re on a typical Kiwi small-town street, the next you’re enveloped in tropical foliage and music. The convenient central location means you can easily combine your visit with other Waihi Beach activities, like grabbing an ice cream or walking on the beach before the show.

What to Expect Inside

Entry and Security: The entrance to The Secret Garden is informal – on regular days you can just wander in through the front gate. On busier event nights, you might encounter a staff member at the gate checking tickets or collecting a door fee (if applicable) and ensuring the venue isn’t over capacity. There’s generally no heavy security presence like metal detectors; the atmosphere is more like entering a friendly backyard party. IDs might be checked if you look under 18 (since alcohol is served), but all ages are usually welcome inside. Bag checks are not routine, though for large events staff may politely check for outside alcohol (which isn’t allowed). Overall, entry is straightforward – expect a warm greeting rather than a pat-down.

Atmosphere and Ambiance: Once inside, you’ll be struck by how whimsical and lush the setting is. The venue truly lives up to its name – it feels like a secret garden hideaway. There are tiki statues, strings of fairy lights and lanterns hanging from trees, and colorful murals and tropical decorations. At night, soft lighting glows from under ferns and inside huts, giving everything a magical vibe. It’s mostly open-air under the sky, with only the hut structures and bar area having roofs. The ambiance is casual and upbeat. You’ll likely hear laughter, clinking glasses, and of course music playing. When a band is on, the whole garden comes alive – people dancing near the stage, others chilling at tables under palm fronds. During quieter times, you might hear birds chirping and just the murmur of happy café patrons. It’s an Instagram-worthy setting for sure, but also very genuine and unpretentious.

Food and Drink: The Secret Garden doubles as a café/bar, so there’s a full menu to enjoy. They specialize in Mexican street food – think tasty tacos, loaded nachos, burritos (including a popular vegan “choyrizo” burrito), quesadillas, and fresh salads. There’s often a chef-driven twist, since they’ve had skilled cooks (even a French chef at one point) infusing extra flavor into the dishes. Portions are hearty yet affordable; many mains are in the NZ$15–$20 range. In addition to the Mexican fare, they have house-made savory scones, muffins and other cabinet food (ready-made pastries and slices), which are perfect if you pop in for morning tea or a quick snack.

Drinks are a highlight. The venue has a fun tiki bar program, serving tropical cocktails in creative glasses – don’t miss their signature rum punch or a classic piña colada. They also make excellent mocktails and kids’ “tiki slushies” for those not indulging in alcohol. Craft beers and New Zealand wines are on hand for the more traditional drinkers. Coffee lovers, rejoice – The Secret Garden takes its coffee seriously too. They brew Havana coffee and even do Vietnamese-style pour-over coffee and spicy Mexican hot chocolate. So whether you’re after a flat white or a frozen margarita, they have you covered. Prices for drinks are about what you’d expect: beers around NZ$8-9, specialty cocktails in the mid-teens, and coffee in the $5 range.

Service and Ordering: The setup is casual self-service for the most part. You’ll typically order food and beverages at the bar or counter. If it’s your first time, it can be a tiny bit confusing – there’s a coffee counter at the front and the main bar slightly further in. Don’t worry, staff will direct you. After ordering, you’ll receive a buzzer or be called when your food is ready, and you can pick it up from the counter. During peak busy times (say a packed Saturday night), wait times for food and drinks can stretch a bit – they’ve become very popular! It’s not fast food, so relax and enjoy the environment while you wait. The staff are friendly and work hard, but on some packed nights a few guests have noted service can feel a touch slow – just part of the laid-back beach vibe. If you’re in a rush, visiting during a quieter hour is recommended. Generally, though, expect a smile, maybe a chat about the menu (they’re great at accommodating dietary needs – lots of gluten-free and vegan options), and a buzzy, communal ordering area where everyone’s just excited to be there.

Facilities and Amenities: One important note – there are no on-site restrooms at The Secret Garden. It’s an outdoor venue without a plumbed toilet block. Patrons use nearby public toilets when nature calls. The nearest restrooms are a short walk – there are public toilets down the street (for example, by the beach reserve or a public facility near the village shops). It’s wise to plan accordingly: use the bathroom before you arrive, or ask staff where exactly to go (they’ll typically direct you around the corner). It’s a small inconvenience for an otherwise unique setup. There is no formal coat check or cloakroom, given the casual outdoor setting. You’ll keep any jackets or bags with you at your seat (the vibe is relaxed and generally safe, just keep valuables within sight).

As for connectivity, cell phone service in Waihi Beach is generally good, and being outdoors means you shouldn’t have issues with reception at the venue. There isn’t publicly advertised Wi-Fi at The Secret Garden, so use cellular data if needed (though you’ll probably be too busy enjoying the moment to bother being online). The venue sometimes sells musician merchandise or local art on special event nights – e.g. a band might have a merch table near the entrance, or there might be locally made tiki-themed crafts for sale during community market events. This isn’t guaranteed at every event, but keep an eye out if you’re interested. Lastly, the overall expectation inside is that you’re here to have fun in a respectful, inclusive environment. The crowd is typically a mix of all ages: families earlier in the day, and a 20s-30s adult crowd in the evenings, with everyone else welcome too. It’s a spot where grandparents have been seen tapping toes to the music alongside backpackers and local surfers. Come as you are, and be ready for a good time in this little slice of tropical paradise.

Before and After the Show

Make the most of your visit to The Secret Garden by exploring the surrounding area. Before a show, you might want to grab a bite or a drink – though keep in mind, The Secret Garden itself serves delicious food and cocktails, so many people choose to head there early for dinner. If you do fancy a change or want to explore Waihi Beach’s other offerings, there are a few options nearby. Just down Wilson Road you’ll find a beloved fish and chips shop (Wilson Road Fish Shop) for classic Kiwi takeaways. There’s also a boutique ice cream parlour and a couple of cute cafes if you’re in the mood for coffee or dessert before the music starts. For a sit-down meal, The Porch Kitchen & Bar or Flatwhite Café (right on the beachfront a short walk away) are popular – Flatwhite is great for an early dinner with ocean views before you wander over to the show.

Post-show hangouts: The Secret Garden’s events tend to wrap up on the early side (around 10pm). If you’re not ready to call it a night, the main alternative for later drinks or entertainment in Waihi Beach is the Waihi Beach Hotel on Ocean View Road (about 10 minutes’ walk or a 2-minute drive). It often has its own live music or events, especially in summer, and has a more traditional pub atmosphere (with a sports bar and garden bar). It can be a fun spot to compare notes on the night and mingle with any other concert-goers who headed there after The Secret Garden closed. Otherwise, late-night options are limited – this is a chill beach town, after all. A post-show tradition for some is to take a quiet stroll down to the beach itself. Waihi Beach (the actual beach) is only a few hundred meters from The Secret Garden. If it’s a clear night, walking on the sand under the stars, listening to the ocean waves, is a fantastic way to wind down after the excitement of the performance.

Hotels and Accommodation: If you’re visiting from out of town, you’ll be pleased to know Waihi Beach has a variety of accommodation within walking distance or a short drive. Several holiday homes and B&Bs are scattered around the neighborhood – you might literally stay on Wilson Road or one of the adjacent streets. There’s also a holiday park (Waihi Beach Top 10 Holiday Resort and Beachaven Kiwi Holiday Park) about 1–2 km away, which offer cabins and camping – a quick drive or a longer walk. For more comfort, there are beach motels and lodges like the Waihi Beach Paradise Resort or local boutique lodges. Many of these are within a 5-minute drive of the venue. So you can enjoy the show without worrying about a long trip home – simply stroll back to your accommodation. If you do need to get back to a nearby town (Waihi, Katikati, etc.) after a show, plan ahead for transport as mentioned (since late-night taxis are scarce).

When to arrive: For a popular event, arriving 30–60 minutes before showtime is smart. This gives you a buffer to find parking, enter smoothly, snag a good seat or table, and soak up the ambiance with a drink in hand before the music kicks off. The venue opens earlier on event days as a bar/restaurant, so you’re generally welcome to come in, order food, and hang out before the formal performance begins. Many locals do exactly that – turning their concert night into a leisurely evening out. By arriving early, you also avoid feeling rushed and can chat with friendly regulars or even the staff about what’s in store.

Late-night departures: After the show, if you’re walking back to nearby accommodation, the town is usually very safe and quiet at night. Just stick to the main routes (Wilson Road has streetlights in the central part). If you drove, the roads will be calm and free of traffic jams – just be mindful of wildlife like possums, and keep under the speed limit on the dark rural roads if you’re heading further out. And of course, if you’ve had a few cocktails, don’t drive – better to walk or arrange a ride. Waihi Beach nights can get quite dark (minimal light pollution), so keep a phone light handy. Many attendees linger a bit after the show, chatting or finishing their drinks as the crew starts to pack down equipment – there’s no rush to vacate immediately, and the staff are generally relaxed as long as you’re respectful of closing time (which might be 10:30–11pm). In summary, plan for a pleasant evening: enjoy the show, maybe grab a nightcap or bite afterwards, and relish the fact that in this small beach town, everything is close by and convenient.

What Makes The Secret Garden Special

The Secret Garden isn’t just another venue – it’s a total experience. Several factors combine to make it truly special. First, there’s the unique tropical design. Nowhere else in the region will you find a venue that feels like a mini Bali resort nestled behind a New Zealand beach town. The owners have poured creativity into every corner: from the pirate-themed cove area (with cheeky decor that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled on a pirate hideout) to the thatched tiki bar serving drinks in coconut shells. At night, the whole place twinkles with fairy lights and tiki torches, creating an atmosphere that many describe as “magical.” Guests often say it’s like stepping into a “secret world” – one moment you’re on the street, the next you’re in a bohemian jungle party.

Historic and cultural impact: While the venue itself is relatively new in the grand scheme (it rose to prominence in the last decade or so), it has quickly become a cultural cornerstone for Waihi Beach. In a town without big concert halls or theaters, The Secret Garden gives local musicians a stage and draws in touring artists who love the intimate vibe. Legendary moments include spontaneous jam sessions during open mic nights and dance parties where the whole crowd felt like a circle of friends. It’s a place where up-and-coming artists can perform in front of an appreciative, laid-back audience – some Kiwi singers who are now gaining wider fame have cut their teeth playing here. The community has embraced it; locals are proud of their “hidden jungle” venue and often bring visiting friends to show it off. It also earned a Travelers’ Choice award on TripAdvisor, reflecting its consistent rave reviews from visitors around the world.

Reputation among performers: Musicians often speak fondly of The Secret Garden. They love the personal connection with the audience – you’re literally arm’s length from the crowd – and the way the natural setting adds to the performance. It’s not unusual for artists to hang out with guests after their set, enjoying a drink under the palm leaves. That lack of pretension and the genuine hospitality of the venue’s staff make it a favorite stop for those on tour. Some even call it the most memorable small venue they’ve played in New Zealand, due to its character.

Inclusive and welcoming ethos: Another thing that sets The Secret Garden apart is its inclusive spirit. Their events explicitly foster a safe, welcoming environment – for example, dance parties come with reminders that this space is free of prejudice (so everyone can feel comfortable to be themselves). Families with kids feel at ease here in the afternoons, and later in the evening adults can let loose – all in the same space, just at different times. The owners are passionate about sustainability and community too: they have a composting system for waste, they host clothing swaps to encourage reuse, and they support local charities through some events. All these little touches contribute to the special vibe – it’s not just about profit or entertainment, it’s about community and good times.

In a nutshell, The Secret Garden is special because it has soul. It’s the kind of venue people fall in love with and return to every time they’re in town. Whether it’s the natural beauty, the unforgettable nights of music, or the way you feel instantly at home among the friendly crowd, The Secret Garden leaves a lasting impression. Many visitors say a trip to Waihi Beach isn’t complete without experiencing this enchanting spot – it captures the free-spirited, friendly magic of the local culture like nowhere else.

Practical Tips for Visiting The Secret Garden

• Accessibility: The venue is on ground level with no stairs at the entry, so wheelchairs can get in, but the pathways are garden terrain (grass and mulch) which can be uneven. There isn’t a dedicated accessible restroom on-site (no restrooms at all, in fact), so plan for bathroom visits elsewhere. If you have mobility needs, arriving a bit early to secure a convenient spot (and chatting with staff) can help – they’re very accommodating and may reserve a suitable table for you.
• Weather Watch: Remember, The Secret Garden is entirely outdoors. If rain is forecast, check their social media or call ahead – they sometimes close or cancel events for bad weather (as seen over Easter when storms shut them down). If a light drizzle occurs, events might continue with people huddling under huts and umbrellas, but heavy rain will likely end the fun. Dress for the evening’s weather – bring a jacket or sweater for cooler nights, and perhaps some insect repellent in summer (mosquitoes do enjoy the lush garden too!). In winter, they may have outdoor heaters or a fire pit, but layers are your friend.
• What (not) to Bring: Outside food and drinks are a no-go – the venue provides plenty of options, and they rely on those sales. Bags are fine (there’s no formal bag policy except standard “be sensible” rules), but keep them by your side. Cameras and phones are welcome; many people snap photos of the cool decor or film a snippet of the band. Just avoid using flash photography in performers’ faces and be respectful if an artist requests no recording. There’s no strict dress code – beach casual is totally acceptable (flip-flops, shorts, sundresses, you name it). Some guests get into the tiki spirit with Hawaiian shirts or floral prints, which adds to the fun, but it’s not required.
• Payments: The Secret Garden accepts major credit/EFTPOS cards and cash. New Zealand is largely card-friendly, and this venue is no exception – you can tap-and-go for your drinks and tacos. Having a little cash can be handy for tipping performers at the open mic (completely optional, but tossing a few coins in the guitar case is a nice gesture) or for a gold-coin donation at community events. But overall, you won’t need cash for official purchases at the bar/kitchen.
• Timing and Planning: Arrive early in peak season. In summer, the place can get quite busy by evening, and they will cap entry if they hit capacity. By coming a bit before the advertised event start, you’ll secure a spot and get to soak in the ambiance as the sun sets – possibly the best time in the garden. If you’re visiting off-season (winter weekdays), note that The Secret Garden may be completely closed Monday–Wednesday and only open limited hours Thurs–Sun. It’s a good idea to double-check their current opening days on their website or a quick phone call, as hours can change depending on the time of year and weather.
• Etiquette and Insider Info: Feel free to strike up conversations – the community vibe is strong here. Don’t be shy to share a table with strangers if space is tight; it’s common and a great way to meet new people (everyone’s pretty friendly in this beach town). If you absolutely loved a performer, often they’ll hang around after – you can compliment them or buy their merch if they have any. And a final tip: make sure to explore the nooks of the venue – there’s art and quirky decor hidden around, from a vintage surfboard sign to perhaps a cheeky garden gnome. Part of the fun is discovering all the little secrets within the Secret Garden!