Events at Mint Bar Wanaka, Wanaka

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R&A Warm Up: Alix Perez - Wanaka

23 October 2020 Friday / 09:00 PM

Mint Bar Wanaka, Wanaka

About Mint Bar Wanaka

Mint Bar Wanaka was a lively late-night bar located at 73 Brownston Street in central Wānaka, forming part of the Base Backpackers hostel complex (www.odt.co.nz). It opened around the late 2000s and quickly became a favourite haunt for budget travellers and locals. The venue featured a gritty, subterranean layout with two pool tables and cozy fireplaces (wanderlog.com), giving it a rough-and-tumble backpacker vibe. Its interior was informal and mostly standing-room: a raised stage and DJ booth occupied one end of the bar (www.eventfinda.co.nz), while bar stools, communal tables and lounge areas clustered around the fire. Mint Bar’s claim to fame was affordability – it was often cited for having some of the cheapest beer deals in town, and its dollar menus (like a burger-and-beer special for about NZ$15 (www.tripadvisor.it)) were legendary. Historically, Mint Bar played a key role in Wānaka’s night scene. In 2009 it weathered a high-profile liquor licence challenge and continued serving under A.C.B. Holdings (which also ran the adjoining Base Backpackers) (www.odt.co.nz). Over the years it hosted informal gatherings as much as club nights, making it a cultural touchstone for backpackers. (Note: as of the mid-2020s, the original Mint Bar site was refurbished into “The Brownston” hostel; listings now list the bar as permanently closed (wanderlog.com).) Despite this change, Mint Bar’s legacy remains in local memory as Wānaka’s go-to late-night party spot with no-frills charm.

Events and Programming

When it was operating, Mint Bar offered a busy mix of events geared toward young people and tourists. Every week you could find **themed bar nights** – for example, karaoke nights on Mondays/Fridays, **Taco Tuesdays** with drink specials, and competitive **beer-pong tournaments on Wednesdays** (wanderlog.com). These nightly promotions kept the atmosphere fun and casual. In addition, Mint Bar regularly hosted live music and DJs. It had a fully equipped DJ booth and raised stage (www.eventfinda.co.nz), and past lineups included well-known Kiwi acts – everything from reggae/hip-hop (King Kapisi, Cornerstone Roots, Ddub) to electronica (Tahuna Breaks, local DJ crews) (www.eventfinda.co.nz). International DJs and touring bands sometimes played private or ticketed shows (for example an October 2020 Alix Perez event). Event frequency was high on weekends and holiday season; the bar often ran until 2:30 AM many nights (www.eventfinda.co.nz). Ticket prices varied by event: small cover charges (around $5–$15) or free entry for basic club nights, up to $20–$30 for big name DJ gigs. (Many events were 18+ due to licensing, as per the “ages 18+” listing (www.ticketfairy.com).) Drink specials were common (e.g. happy hour pizza-and-pint deals, $5 shots, jugs of beer), which helped fill the dance floor. Overall, Mint Bar’s calendar blended casual hostel party nights (open mic, quiz, bar games) with occasional serious club shows, reflecting its dual role as backpacker hangout and local live-music venue.

Tickets and Booking

Mint Bar did not have an on-site box office like larger venues. Tickets for special shows were usually sold in advance through the hostel’s reception or partner websites (Eventfinda, Ticket Fairy, etc.), and online presale was recommended for popular events. Many club nights had no cover or a small door charge, but big acts could sell out. Locals often snagged tickets on social media or by calling Base Backpackers (the phone number was listed as 027 288 6794 (www.eventfinda.co.nz)). If planning to attend a busy night (for example a Friday DJ party or holiday-season extravaganza), it was wise to book early or arrive right at opening time to secure entry. Otherwise, casual walk-ins typically bought tickets at the door until capacity was reached. Generally, Mint Bar’s organizers posted upcoming shows a few weeks or days ahead. Check the venue’s Facebook page or local gig calendars for announcements (the venue phone was +64 3 443 4291 (www.ticketfairy.com), though now defunct). For free-entry nights, no advance booking was needed – just showing up before peak times. Box office hours were essentially the bar’s opening hours: usually 6pm until close in summer (or later in peak season). In short, **ticket strategy** was simple: attend early for free nights, or buy online/pre-pay if a ticketed act is advertised. Always bring ID when booking or buying at base, as all patrons must be 18+.

Seating and Layout

Mint Bar’s interior was a single large room with an open-plan nightclub style. There were **no fixed theatre seats**, just a scattering of high bar stools, benches and the two top-of-table seating areas by the fireplace (wanderlog.com). Most patrons stood or mingled. The raised stage/DJ booth dominated one wall (www.eventfinda.co.nz), so the main “dance floor” was in the middle of the room. Along one side were the pool tables and lounge chairs, which were popular for groups hanging out; near the back was a fireplace nook and couches for a quieter spot (wanderlog.com). Facing the stage – slightly off-center – were tall communal tables and a few rows of bench seating. For the best view and sound, the front-of-stage area was ideal (on the floor near the DJ). However, that gets very loud on DJ-heavy nights. People preferring a break from the noise could hang back by the pool tables or near the bar. The bar counter was close to the entrance, so ordering drinks was convenient if you caught it early. The stage was small (usually one DJ or solo band) and close to the crowd, giving an intimate feel. No real “VIP” section existed, though a handful of benches right level with the stage had an elevated vantage. Two important notes: **Sightlines and Acoustics.** Because it was a low-ceiling basement space, crowd density could block views if you stand at the back. For clear sightlines to performers, try the middle or front before the night gets too packed. The sound system was decent club-level (as advertised by promoters (www.ticketfairy.com)), but bass thumps might echo; earplugs are not a bad idea for sensitive ears. In a nutshell, Mint Bar was best experienced standing or leaning by the bar/pool areas – it wasn’t a seated “show” but a social dance venue.

Getting There and Parking

Mint Bar’s address was **73 Brownston Street**, a short block west of Helwick Street in central Wānaka (next to Base Backpackers/Wānaka). It’s roughly a 5-minute walk southwest of the town center and a 10-minute walk from the lakefront. Because Wānaka has no city buses, most visitors arrive by car, foot or taxi. If driving, parking is very accessible: Wānaka’s CBD has *lots* of free street parking (mostly 30-minute or 4-hour bays) right in the blocks around Brownston (adventurehostels.co.nz). In fact, no paid parking is enforced in town. You can usually find a spot on Brownston itself or the parallel side streets (Ardmore Street, Helwick Street, Dungarvon Street, etc.) (adventurehostels.co.nz). As AdventureHostels advice】notes, “plenty of residential street parking options” are safe and free near Brownston ([adventurehostels.co.nz). For those traveling by coach or airport shuttle: intercity buses from Christchurch or Queenstown typically stop in central Wānaka (often at Ardmore Street or Helwick Street). From there, it’s a 3–4 minute walk along the main street and a right onto Brownston. Local taxi services (e.g. Wanaka Cabs, Zoomy) can drop you almost at the door; just ask to be let out at Base Backpackers on Brownston. (Rideshare apps like Uber/Lyft have limited coverage in small Wānaka, so a local cab is safer.) Finally, note that Wānaka Airport is 9 km northeast (in Albert Town). There are shuttles and taxis from the airport, but most flights land in evening so plan ahead if you’ll head directly to Mint Bar. The pub itself is visible from the street at night by its lit sign; there’s no separate entry parking lot, so guests usually park nearby then walk to the door.

Inside the Venue

Expect a dark, clubby party vibe as soon as you enter. There was no coat-check desk, so patrons typically left jackets or backpacks at the foot of the bar or hung them on a chair. Security staff generally gave a quick glance at bags on entry. Be ready with photo ID (driver’s licence or passport) at the door – New Zealand law requires 18+ for late-night bars. Staff would scan or mark checked IDs. Once inside, you’ll find an atmosphere that’s loud, energetic and social. Colorful lights illuminated the dance area; flashing strobes or streamers might be used on special nights. Smoke machines were occasionally used on DJ nights. The air can get warm and smoky on packed nights, so lightweight clothing or layers that can be tied around the waist are smart. **Food and Drink:** A simple menu of bar food was available late-night. As noted by guests, $15 covered a hearty combo like a juicy beef burger with fries plus a beer (www.tripadvisor.it). Pizza and nachos were also common offerings, with kitchen hours typically til 11pm or midnight. Drink prices were low for Wānaka: draught beer beers, house wines and basic spirits by the shot were available. Specials like $5 schooners or jugs of local lager kept costs down. They often ran deals (e.g. “$2 tacos Tuesdays” or “$5 double shots” on a drinking night). Typical cocktails or mixers were on the cheaper side, though the variety wasn’t extensive – think standard pub cocktails (Vodka-Cola, Rum’n’Cola, gin & tonic, etc.) with NZ basics like L&P or lemonade mixers. Seating was minimal inside, so if you find a bench or table you like (near the bar or fireplace), keep it by placing your drink or bag there. Otherwise most people stand in small clusters or by the pool tables to socialize. If you arrive early, test the food – one review raves that everything is made with care and “you can taste the love” in the burgers and pizzas. If the kitchen is closed by the time you arrive (often close by 11pm), snack-ready Late-night patrons had frisks: Base Backpackers is adjacent, and several bottle shops (including Base’s own mini shop) stock cheap snacks and instant noodles. **Facilities:** Restrooms (toilets and sinks) were in back—but small in number, so expect short lines during breaks. Most patrons said the bar and baths were kept reasonably clean despite heavy use. Cell phone reception and Wi-Fi were generally fine inside; many guests reported no trouble using networks or ordering an Uber (when available). There was no in-house ATM, so it’s best to get some cash beforehand (though credit cards were accepted for drinks).

Nearby Amenities

Mint Bar’s central location means amenities are within a short stroll. Right next door is the Base hostel (now The Brownston), which has a 24/7 reception booth – you could often buy drink tickets or food vouchers at reception. Across Helwick Street, the main shopping stretch (Ardmore/Helwick) offers plenty of pre-show dining: a few minutes’ walk brings you to pizza joints (Big Fig Galley Kitchen on Ardmore St), Asian eateries (Kika Noodle, Spice Room), and classics like Public Kitchen & Bar. For a quick snack or bottle shop run, there’s a supermarket across from town (Countdown on Helwick) and several liquor stores within 10 minutes’ walk. Coffee shops, bakeries and fish-and-chips takeaways line Ardmore Street, ideal for grabbing early-bird dinner or breakfast before an evening out. If you need lodging, Base Wānaka (73 Brownston St) itself is a hostel so you could literally lurk upstairs. Otherwise, nearby accommodations include backpacker/hostels (Adventure Wānaka on Ardmore, YHA Wānaka a few blocks north) and hotels/B&Bs (Wanaka Hotel on Ardmore, or Airbnbs around town). Later at night, the closest taxi stands are on Helwick Street by Albert Town corner; walking back to centrally located hotels is also feasible if you’re not extremely tired. As for late-night eats *after* a session, nearby options include 24-hour petrol station lattes (one is at Dunmore St corner), or the takeaway window at LakeTec on Ardmore (soups/pizza by midnight). The new Beyond Burger joint on Helwick often serves very late (closing after 2am sometimes). If you’re planning an all-night pub crawl, note that most Wānaka bars (like Kika, Dive Bar, Above Par, etc.) are a 5–10 minute walk from Brownston – good in summer, chilly in winter.

What Makes This Venue Special

Mint Bar Wanaka was more than just another pub; it embodied Wānaka’s backpacker culture for a decade. Its **quirky, unpolished character** set it apart: as one local reporter noted in 2009, Mint Bar’s fight to keep its licence proved it was a popular late-night hub (www.odt.co.nz). Artists and DJs loved playing there because the crowd was relaxed and the setup intimate. Having hosted big names in Kiwi music (Ladi 6, King Kapisi, etc. (www.eventfinda.co.nz)), its stage has seen some of the region’s best talent in a very grassroots setting. Regulars remember “Mint Tuesdays” or “All-nighters” fondly – it was a place to meet fellow travellers at the end of the world, share cheap drinks, and play parquet games into the small hours. Its **cheap beer prices** became legendary among budget travelers (www.tripadvisor.it). The bar was also famous for its offbeat décor: worn wood floors, graffiti-tags near the bathroom, and even a disco-ball or two. These gave it a lived-in charm that made it feel local. For the community, Mint Bar provided a bridge between international visitors and locals. Anniversary parties, charity fundraisers or hostel orientation gauntlets often dumped people here, seeding lifelong friendships. Culturally, it represented Wānaka’s one and only backpacker nightclub – without it, many budget travellers had nowhere to party. Even after its closure, Mint Bar is remembered in local lore as **“the soundtrack of backpacker Wānaka”** (wanderlog.com), a venue that didn’t try to be fancy, just friendly.

Visitor Tips and Information

- **Accessibility:** Mint Bar was on the ground floor and had a flat entry, but the narrow interior might be a squeeze for wheelchairs. There’s no formal ramp signage and doorways are standard width. If you have mobility needs, it’s best to call ahead and see if they can accommodate. Otherwise, nearby bars like Kika (on Helwick St) have known wheelchair ramps. - **What to Bring/Not Bring:** Photo ID is mandatory (passport or NZ/HK driver’s licence). Camera use is generally discouraged: casual phone photos are okay, but don’t bring large cameras or heavy gear. No outside alcohol or glass bottles allowed (Kiwi liquor laws). Bags were normally permitted, but security may pat you down. Good hiking boots or sneakers are fine – it’s not a dressy place, and sticky floors mean heels might slip. In summer, bring a light jacket for waiting outside if needed after 2am. - **Common Pitfalls:** If you arrive very late, the kitchen may have closed (midnight on busy nights). Plan to eat or snack beforehand. Also be aware that Wānaka closes up earlier than Queenstown – after 2:30 AM the vibe abruptly ends. Taxis can run out around 4am, so note shuttle or hostel taxi services as backup. Don’t assume credit card only – it’s wise to carry a little cash since card machines can glitch at crowded bars (though cards usually work at Mint Bar). - **Age and Entry:** Strict 18+ after 9pm. Under-18s should not attempt entry at night. Any special all-ages gigs would be advertised separately, but for regular nights, you’ll be asked for ID. Bouncer decisions on age checks are firm (Kiwi law), so even if the event is “21+” or higher you might politely get turned away without valid ID. - **Dress Code:** Totally casual. T-shirts, shorts or jeans are the norm. Only rule is “no offensive slogans” – but since it was a backpacker bar, even band tees and beer tats were fine. If it’s winter, bring a warm layer because after-door lounge areas had open doors/windows and the large room cooled down when people filed out late. - **Secret Tips:** The pool tables were free to use – chalk up early if you want a game between songs. Also, if it’s busy, grab a beer/shot on the way in to save time (there’s usually a line at the bar early on). Locals learned that the far right side of the stage doubles as a small dance platform – a little more space when the floor’s packed. Finally, Mint Bar once ran a low-key happy hour (for example, 6–7pm crocodile deals) that older backpackers swear by, though it may not have been officially advertised. - **COVID/Safety Note:** By 2020-21 some special licensing (space limits, QR check-in) applied to all bars in NZ. Mint Bar would have required scanned entry via the NZ COVID tracer app if open during those times. Always check the latest local rules (e.g. vaccination passes) during peak flu or pandemic periods.

What kind of events did Mint Bar Wanaka host?

Mint Bar ran a mix of weekly bar nights and live shows. You’d find free theme nights (like karaoke, beer pong contests, Taco Tuesdays with drink deals) as well as DJs and live music gigs. Past acts ranged from local Kiwi bands (Cornerstone Roots, Tahuna Breaks) to touring DJs (e.g. Alix Perez). Essentially, it was a club environment for both casual parties and occasional ticketed concerts.

How do I buy tickets for a Mint Bar event?

For big shows or festivals, tickets were usually sold online or through partnerships (e.g. through Base Backpackers’ front desk). Smaller club nights often had free entry or paid at the door. In practice, people either bought tickets via the hostel reception in advance or purchased online via event sites. If you’re attending a popular act, book early. Otherwise, arriving before doors open was enough for most free nights.

Is Mint Bar Wanaka indoors or outdoors?

Mint Bar was entirely indoors. It occupied the ground floor of the Base/Wānaka Backpackers building. The layout was like a club room – dark, with a low ceiling, neon lights and no outdoor patio. Even the smoking area was just a small cordoned-off section at the entrance. So all activities and dancing took place inside the bar.

Does Mint Bar Wanaka have seating or is it general admission?

The venue was mainly general admission. There were a few bar stools and high-top benches near walls, but no reserved seats. Most of the crowd stood around tables or at the dance floor. The best “seats” were benches by the fireplace or chairs near the pool tables. In short, it was largely on-your-feet – like a casual nightclub.

Is there parking available near Mint Bar Wānaka?

Yes – Wānaka offers generous free street parking. Mint Bar was on Brownston St in the CBD, where parking is mainly free for short periods (30-min to 4-hr zones) (adventurehostels.co.nz). You can usually find a spot along Brownston itself or nearby (Ardmore, Helwick, Dungarvon streets). There were no paid lots in town, so just observe the posted time limits. Overnight parking, however, needs compliance with any wintertime restrictions the council sets (check local signs).

How can I get to Mint Bar Wānaka from the bus or airport?

The closest public transport stop is in central Wānaka – buses from Queenstown or Cromwell usually drop at the town center. From there, it’s a 3–5 minute walk south along Helwick Street to Brownston Street. If you arrive by taxi from Wānaka Airport (9km away), just instruct the driver to drop you at Base Backpackers on Brownston. The walkboxes have good footpaths; it’s an easy route.

Does Mint Bar Wanaka serve food and drink, and what are the prices like?

Absolutely – Mint Bar’s menu featured classic bar fare. Patrons could order burgers, pizza, nachos and the like (one reviewer got a burger + fries and a beer for about NZ$15 (www.tripadvisor.it)). Prices were very budget-friendly. Drinks included draught beer, shots and simple cocktails. Specials were common (e.g. $5 beers, taco specials), so cocktails and mixed drinks were generally around $10–$12. Overall, it was one of the cheapest spots in town for food and drinks.

What are the opening hours of Mint Bar Wānaka?

When it was open, Mint Bar operated late. According to listings, it opened at 6:00 PM and usually stayed open to about 2:30 AM every evening (www.eventfinda.co.nz). It closed on public holidays. So plan on heading there after dark; weekdays and weekends had similar hours. (Of course, bar hours can change — always double-check local sources for current times.)

Is Mint Bar Wānaka wheelchair accessible?

Accessibility was limited. The bar was on ground level with no steps at the front, which is good. However, doorways and space inside were narrow. There was no dedicated wheelchair entrance or disabled restroom reported. If wheelchair access is needed, it would be safest to contact the venue (or now The Brownston hostel management) ahead of time to verify accommodations. Otherwise, there are more accessible venues in town for wheelchair users.

Are there age restrictions (e.g., 18+ only) at Mint Bar Wānaka?

Yes. As a licensed late-night bar, the official policy was 18 and over. Patrons needed to show valid ID (NZ SA driver’s licence or passport). Some under-18 hostel events might have been exceptions, but generally after 9pm it was strictly for 18+. Promoters for special gigs usually advertised “Ages 18+” (for example the Alix Perez Oct 2020 show was 18+) (www.ticketfairy.com). No ID meant no entry.

Is photography or recording allowed inside Mint Bar?

Mint Bar was a casual venue, and low-key smartphone photos were typically allowed. However, verbal signage often requested no professional cameras or video recording during shows, to respect performers and privacy. It’s best to keep any recording to your phone and not use tripods or large equipment. If in doubt, ask the bouncer or bartender. On the other hand, photos of your friends and drinks were usually fine.

What’s the dress code at Mint Bar Wānaka?

Ultra casual. Think Kiwi backpacker style: jeans or shorts, T-shirts, sneakers. There was never any suit-or-tie expectation. Just avoid offensive prints or overly revealing gear out of respect. If you’re visiting in winter, a warm jacket is wise for getting to/from the bar, but inside it could get hot, so layers were best. Party costumes or fun outfits were also common on theme nights!

Does Mint Bar Wanaka have a coat check or lockers?

No formal coat check was available. Most people simply left jackets on chairs or benches. For valuables, you could ask staff if they’d hold something behind the bar briefly, but there was no secure storage. If staying at the hostel, guests sometimes stashed things in their rooms. In practice, carry light: a small bag or nothing at all works best.

Where are the toilets inside Mint Bar?

Toilets were located at the back of the bar space. You’d walk past the bar counter toward the rear, where a hallway led to men’s and women’s restrooms. They were a bit small and could queue up during busy nights, but were generally functional. Signs inside guided you to them. Note: during packed events, waiting times could be several minutes, so plan drink trips accordingly.

What are some IT amenities at Mint Bar Wanaka?

Wi-Fi was *not* advertised as available to the public (it was mainly for hostel guests). Cell coverage (Vodafone/Spark 4G) was okay in the bar area, so most people tethered or used mobile data. There were power outlets tucked away along some walls, but no dedicated charging station. If you need internet, consider popping into a café before or after – many on Ardmore Street have free Wi-Fi.