About Water Bar Wanaka
Water Bar Wanaka is a fully licensed restaurant and bar perched right on Lake Wānaka’s front lawn (www.waterbarwanaka.co.nz). Its modern timber-and-glass design (by Chaney & Norman Architects) intentionally “blends with] the natural beauty of its surroundings” ([archipro.co.nz). Giant floor-to-ceiling windows and a lakeside deck give patrons sweeping mountain and lake views. In fact, it’s one of the few venues where you can literally watch boats on the water (and even toss bread to the resident trout and ducks) (www.ticketfairy.com). Locals describe it as a warm, friendly Kiwi pub atmosphere – a social hub where both visitors and residents come for hearty meals, craft drinks and live entertainment (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.waterbarwanaka.co.nz). Seating spans indoor lounge space and an outdoor patio, so it easily handles a moderately large crowd (the exact capacity isn’t published) (www.ticketfairy.com). In short, Water Bar stands out for its unbeatable lakefront location, cozy alpine-chic décor, and mix of dining and nightlife that has made it a Wānaka landmark.
Events and Programming
Water Bar isn’t just a dining spot – after dark it turns into one of Wānaka’s liveliest entertainment venues. The bar runs a daily happy hour (typically around 5:30–6:30pm) and fun weekly contests like trivia quizzes and pool competitions. For example, local event listings show a free Quiz Night every Tuesday at 7pm (www.eventfinda.co.nz). On weekends and evenings, the focus shifts to music and dancing. The venue regularly books local and touring bands of all styles – from classic/rock cover groups and acoustic singer-songwriters to tribute shows. In 2024–2025 it has even hosted well-known drum-and-bass and electronic nights (promoted as “live music Saturdays” or DJ parties) featuring acts like Shogun Audio, The Upbeats and CROSSY (www.ticketfairy.com). Managers tailor programming to the season: in summer you might see an outdoor-themed party or charity gig; on other nights it might be pop/rock band sets or club-style DJ sessions, often starting 9–10pm. Notable past events include themed nights (for example, a Fleetwood Mac cover concert) and even novelty performances like the Aussie “Stallions” male revue, which sold out with VIP tables and bubbly (www.ticketfairy.com). In short, expect a packed calendar: weekly quiz games and drink deals, regular live band performances, and high-energy DJ club nights – making Water Bar a go-to spot in Wānaka’s nightlife (www.wanaka.co.nz) (www.ticketfairy.com).
Tickets and Booking
For concerts and special events at Water Bar, tickets are usually sold in advance through event listings or can be purchased at the door. There is no traditional box office; promoters often use online sales. Popular shows may sell out, so it’s wise to buy tickets early. For example, past tribute shows have had presale and door prices around NZ$25–30 (www.ticketfairy.com). Cover charges (entry fees) depend on the event – trivia nights and dining require no cover, while late-night DJ/club nights (often 18+ only) might. Best strategy: watch local listings or the venue’s Facebook page for announcements, and purchase online once on sale. For dining, Water Bar strongly encourages reservations for groups. Guests can reserve a table instantly on the official website or by phone (the homepage prominently offers a “Book a table” link) (www.waterbarwanaka.co.nz). Walk-ins are welcome too, but on busy nights wait times can be long. The website also notes that large parties or private functions can be arranged by contacting the bar (www.waterbarwanaka.co.nz).
Seating and Layout
The venue’s interior is one open-plan level. One side is dominated by a long counter bar with high stools, and the other side has booth tables and couches (www.ticketfairy.com). Because there are no balconies, everyone essentially sits on the same floor and can usually see the small performance area. The only limited-view seats are those immediately behind any supporting pillars, which early reviews advise avoiding (www.ticketfairy.com). Many guests prefer the lakeside tables or outdoor deck for the best scenery (www.ticketfairy.com). During live shows the chairs along the front or by the windows give prime views of the stage and the lake beyond, while bar stools near the stage offer standing room dancing space. Acoustically, the bar is well soundproofed. A professionally installed ceiling speaker system means music fills the room clearly without distortion (www.ticketfairy.com). On party nights it can get loud, but on quieter nights conversations at tables are still possible (www.ticketfairy.com). In daytime the room is bright with natural light, and at night the lighting switches to a dim, nightclub ambience with colored uplights during performances (www.ticketfairy.com). Overall, Water Bar feels casual and unpretentious, with a modern-rustic décor of wood and glass that highlights the alpine setting (www.ticketfairy.com).
Getting There and Parking
Water Bar is located at 145 Ardmore Street in central Wanaka, right on the lakefront (www.ticketfairy.com). The venue sits at the corner of Ardmore and Helwick Streets, adjacent to the public Wānaka Wharf and near the visitor information centre (i-SITE) (www.ticketfairy.com). For drivers, turn into town off State Highway 6 onto Ardmore Street. Street parking along Ardmore is extremely limited (especially evenings/weekends), with only a few short-term metered spots that fill quickly. The closest big car park is the Lakeside Carpark (Sir Tim Wallis Reserve) behind the i-SITE on Brownston Street – it’s only about a 300-metre (5-minute) walk (www.ticketfairy.com). This lakeside lot is free during off-peak hours or metered depending on the season/time, so be sure to check the signs. Additional town parking is found on Brownston and around the lakefront near Ed Sheeran Place. For taxi/rideshare, the main drop-off is right in front on Ardmore or across Helwick.
By public transport, Wanaka has minimal local service. Regional buses (like InterCity or the Queenstown–Wanaka coach) stop at the i-SITE or on Ardmore Street nearby (www.ticketfairy.com). From those stops it’s a short walk along Ardmore to reach Water Bar. There is no subway or tram in Wanaka – most visitors arrive by car or shuttle. After late-night shows (often ending around midnight), taxis can be scarce, so it’s wise to pre-book a ride or walk to a main road. The local i-SITE desk can also advise on shuttles or late-night transport options.
Inside the Venue
Expect a relaxed, social atmosphere inside. The decor is “modern rustic” – lots of warm timber and glass that reflects the mountain-chic setting (www.ticketfairy.com). One wall is lined with a polished bar countertop and stools, while the rest of the room has booths and banquet seating. During winter there’s even a toasty fireplace with comfortable leather wingback chairs (as one review noted, it’s lovely on a chilly night) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk). In summer, many diners spill out onto the shaded deck to enjoy the lakeside air. The staff are typically friendly and attentive, handling orders smoothly even when it’s busy (www.tripadvisor.co.uk). Drink service is at the bar for cocktails/beer, or table service for food. The menu is broad: think hearty share plates, fresh salads, gourmet burgers and flatbreads, seafood and locally raised lamb dishes (www.ticketfairy.com). In fact, the restaurant’s own menu emphasizes everything from farmed lamb to “mouth-watering burgers… with house-made sauces” (www.ticketfairy.com). Many patrons especially recommend trying Water Bar’s signature cheeseburger – one solo traveler even wrote they were “literally obsessed” with the Classic Cheeseburger (www.tripadvisor.co.uk). On the drinks side there’s a full cocktail list and a wide selection of local beers and wines.
Amenities inside include tidy restrooms (including an accessible stall) and occasionally a pop-up merch area during big shows. Note the small storage notes: there’s no cloakroom – guests typically hang jackets on wall hooks or drape them over chairs (www.ticketfairy.com). Free Wi-Fi is sometimes available (just ask the barstaff), and cell service is strong inside (www.ticketfairy.com). As a fully licensed venue, all food and beverage must be purchased on-site – outside food/drinks are not allowed. Also, after dark the bar strictly checks ID (even locals have reported needing a passport or Kiwi ID to enter in the evening). Cameras and phones are fine for casual photos (people love snapping the lake view), just be respectful of others on busy nights (www.ticketfairy.com). Security may check bags on peak nights, so it’s best not to carry a large backpack or outside bottles.
Nearby Amenities
Water Bar’s downtown location means plenty of choices nearby. Directly next door (at 74 Ardmore) is Arc Wanaka, a popular Mediterranean/European share-plate restaurant – a great spot for a pre-show dinner (www.ticketfairy.com). A block north on Ardmore are several takeout and cafe options: Raome Thai (for Thai food), Pembroke Patisserie (coffee and pastries), and Relishes Kiosk (famous for burgers and fish & chips) (www.ticketfairy.com). If you want to continue the night elsewhere, a couple of other bars are walking distance: Speight’s Ale House is just ~100m south, and CŌTÉ Wanaka (a distillery bar) is a block away on Peryer Street (www.ticketfairy.com).
For accommodations and other dining, the lakeside hotels Oakridge and Edgewater are a short drive away, while the Wanaka Hotel (now Rydges Lake Wanaka) is only a 5-minute walk. Many motels and backpacker lodges line Ardmore and nearby Brownston Street. If you have time before the show, consider a stroll for dessert or coffee: the trendy café Kai Whakapai (on Gordon Rd) and Malaysian street-food spot Kika are both within a few blocks of Water Bar (www.ticketfairy.com).
What Makes This Venue Special
Several things set Water Bar apart in Wanaka. Architecturally, it’s built to showcase its setting: designers emphasized how the space “seamlessly blends modern design with the natural beauty of its surroundings” (archipro.co.nz). In practice, that means most spots inside have a view of Lake Wānaka or the mountains through big windows. This lakeside stage is unique – the official Wānaka tourism descriptions even highlight the adjacent public wharf, a place where people swim, feed fish or capture the sunset right outside the door (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). In many ways Water Bar feels like a celebration of Wānaka’s laid-back, outdoor lifestyle.
Culturally, it has become central to Wanaka’s nightlife. Locals affectionately call it a “home base” for evening entertainment – it’s one of the few places in town where a major touring act or top DJ will stop (www.ticketfairy.com). By hosting both incoming bands and local New Zealand acts (the country’s own drum’n’bass group The Upbeats has played there), Water Bar helps introduce visitors to Kiwi music. It also frequently hosts charity fundraisers, themed parties and seasonal celebrations (for example, lively New Year’s Eve parties on the deck) (www.ticketfairy.com). In short, it’s woven into the community fabric, not just as a restaurant but as a gathering spot for shared experiences.
Finally, the venue’s dual personality is noteworthy. By day it’s a casual waterfront patio café, and by night it’s a hip club-like venue – and that mix really appeals to people. One local guide summed it up: you “start the night with a gourmet burger” in a comfortable setting and can end up dancing under the stars on the deck (www.ticketfairy.com). This combination of friendly Kiwi hospitality, an unbeatable location, and surprisingly high-end feel (despite being very approachable) makes Water Bar Wanaka truly memorable for artists and audiences alike (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue is entirely at street level with wide entrances, so it’s wheelchair-friendly. An accessible restroom is available (www.ticketfairy.com). If you need special assistance, calling ahead is recommended. Dress code: There’s no formal dress code – most patrons come casually dressed (jeans, shirts, etc.). A light jacket is wise in evenings, especially if you plan to sit on the deck or visit in winter.
What to bring: Always carry a valid photo ID after dark (all evening events are 18+) (www.ticketfairy.com). The staff often check ID, and they have been known to require passports of international visitors, so don’t rely solely on a foreign driver’s license. Place any coats or bags on the provided wall hooks, as there is no coat check (www.ticketfairy.com). Avoid bulky backpacks on busy nights – security may do quick checks. Cameras and phones are welcome (the lakeside view is very photogenic), but avoid blocking walkways to take pictures (www.ticketfairy.com). Earplugs can be handy if you’re noise-sensitive, as weekend DJ sets can get loud.
Arrival and parking: For events, it’s smart to arrive 30–45 minutes early (www.ticketfairy.com), so you can secure parking and a good seat. After 9pm, parking in the nearby lot is usually free. Street parking meters run in town; the main Lakeside lot behind the i-SITE is often your best bet (www.ticketfairy.com). Taxis can be hard to find late at night – consider booking one in advance or walking a block to flag a cab.
Happy Hour and Deals: Take advantage of daily specials – for example, the bar often runs drink deals or food specials ($20 burger nights, etc.). Happy Hour daily in the late afternoon (around 5:30–6:30pm) offers discounted drinks (www.wanaka.co.nz). If you prefer a quieter visit, avoid the most crowded promo nights: midweek quiz and beer specials draw locals, so Tuesday/Wednesday or peak-season weekends will be busier (www.ticketfairy.com). Conversely, weekday afternoons tend to be relaxed – a good time for families.
Rules and Policies: No outside food or drink is allowed – everything must be purchased on site (www.ticketfairy.com). After about 9pm most nights, the venue becomes 18+ and enforces it strictly (under-18s must leave by closing) (www.ticketfairy.com). There’s no cloakroom or locker; keep valuables with you. In general, being polite and patient with staff and other patrons will ensure a great experience – after all, this is a social, friendly Kiwi bar.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the address and exact location of Water Bar Wanaka?
Water Bar is at 145 Ardmore Street, Wānaka 9305. It’s literally on the lakefront (next to the public wharf) at the corner of Ardmore and Helwick Streets (www.ticketfairy.com). This places it in Wanaka’s town center near the visitor i-SITE and ferry pier.
What parking options are available near Water Bar?
Street parking on Ardmore is very limited (metered; often full by evening) (www.ticketfairy.com). The best option is the Lakeside Carpark (Sir Tim Wallis Reserve) on Brownston Street – about a 300m walk from the bar (www.ticketfairy.com). Depending on the season, this lot can be free or metered (check local signs). There are also some paid spaces further up Brownston St and around Ed Sheeran Place.
How can I reach Water Bar using public transportation?
Wanaka doesn’t have frequent local buses. Regional coach services (e.g. InterCity) stop at the i-SITE visitor center or on Ardmore Street, both about a block from Water Bar (www.ticketfairy.com). From there it’s a short walk. Otherwise, visitors usually rely on rental cars, shuttles or taxis. (After late-evening events, taxi service is limited, so it’s wise to book ahead or walk to a main street to flag one.)
What types of events and entertainment are held at Water Bar?
Water Bar runs a varied schedule. During weekdays you’ll find things like happy-hour drink specials and trivia or quiz nights (often Tuesdays at 7pm) (www.wanaka.co.nz) (www.eventfinda.co.nz). On weekends and select evenings it becomes a live music venue. Regular acts include traveling cover bands, tribute shows and DJs playing electronic or drum-&-bass music. For example, it has hosted well-known DnB DJs such as Shogun Audio and The Upbeats (www.ticketfairy.com). The bar also throws special themed parties (like a sold-out male-revue night) and charity events, so there’s almost always something going on.
When are the weekly quiz nights at Water Bar?
Quiz or trivia nights are typically held once a week, usually on a weekday (for instance, many schedules show them on Tuesdays around 7–9pm) (www.eventfinda.co.nz). This can vary, so it’s best to check the current event listing or call the bar. These quiz nights are normally free to enter.
How do I get tickets or make reservations for events?
There isn’t an on-site ticket booth. For scheduled shows and DJ nights, tickets are usually sold online or at the door by the event promoters. Popular events often sell out, so buying tickets early through official event pages is wise. Table reservations for dining can be made on Water Bar’s official website or by calling, and they also welcome walk-ins. Large groups or private events can be arranged by contacting the bar in advance (www.waterbarwanaka.co.nz).
Is there a cover charge or entry fee for Water Bar?
Entry is free for regular dining or casual visits. However, special events (especially late-night dance or concert nights) often have a cover charge or ticket price. It varies by show – for example, tribute concerts have sometimes been around NZ$25–30 per ticket (www.ticketfairy.com). Trivia nights and early-evening musical acts are usually free. Always check the specific event details for any cover charge information.
What kind of food and drinks does Water Bar serve?
Water Bar offers a broad menu of pub-style fare. Expect gourmet burgers (house-made sauces and all), flatbreads, salads, share plates and New Zealand lamb dishes (www.ticketfairy.com). The website proudly highlights “mouth-watering burgers” among the menu specials (www.ticketfairy.com). In reviews, the Classic Cheeseburger gets rave comments (“obsessed” by one guest) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk). They also have daily deals like pizza or $20 specials on certain days. On the drink side, there’s a full cocktail list and plenty of local beers and wines available.
Does Water Bar have outdoor seating or lake views?
Yes – one of Water Bar’s signature features is its outdoor deck and waterfront views. Large panoramic windows line the restaurant side, and in warm weather the covered patio (deck) seats guests right by the lake. Visitors can enjoy mountain and lake scenery while dining or drinking. In fact, many diners specifically request the riverside/window tables to take in the panoramic vistas (www.ticketfairy.com).
Where are the best seats for watching a show?
Since Water Bar is a single-level venue with no balconies, almost all tables can see the stage. The best spots are generally near the front of the performance area or along the lakeside windows (www.ticketfairy.com). Avoid seating behind any structural columns, as they can obstruct views. Many fans like to stand or grab stools close to the stage for a concert-like vibe; otherwise, any seat not directly behind a pillar will have a clear view.
Is Water Bar Wanaka wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The venue is all on one floor with no steps at the main entrance, so wheelchair access is straightforward (www.ticketfairy.com). There is an accessible restroom available. Staff members are generally accommodating if you notify them of accessibility needs. (As always, calling ahead can confirm any specifics.)
Do I need to dress up or bring identification?
The dress code is casual: most guests wear jeans, tshirts or casual shirts. There is no formal dress requirement. However, you do need a valid ID for entry after dark. As a fully licensed bar, staff will ask for photo ID (passport or NZ driver’s license) on evening visits. Carry your ID even if you’re not drinking, since everyone is checked upon entry at night (www.ticketfairy.com). (Families can dress comfortably by day, but remember the 18+ enforcement later.)
Are children allowed at Water Bar?
Water Bar welcomes families and children during daytime and early evening dining. Kids can enjoy the casual lunch or early dinner service. After about 9pm it shifts to an adult-oriented atmosphere. In practice, all live-gig and late-night events are 18+, and staff will require any minors to leave when that rule comes into effect (www.ticketfairy.com). So families should plan to attend earlier hours.
Is the venue smoke-free or is there a smoking area?
As of recent laws, indoor smoking is banned in New Zealand bars, so the indoor dining area is smoke-free. Water Bar may offer a designated outdoor area on the deck for smokers, but policies can change with regulations. A quick tip is that many guests stand outside on the terrace to smoke, which is common. Always be mindful of rules and posted signs.
Does Water Bar offer Wi-Fi?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available, though it’s not always advertised strongly. Guests have noted that Wi-Fi can be requested at the bar, and in practice cell phone reception is very good through the venue (www.ticketfairy.com). So you should be able to get online or use mobile data without issue.
Can I bring a camera or video recorder?
Photography with a smartphone or point-and-shoot is fine – people often take pictures of the lake view or performances at Water Bar (www.ticketfairy.com). However, professional video recording equipment generally requires management permission. Also, be considerate when snapping photos so you don’t block walkways or other guests. In short, photos for personal use are allowed, but check with staff for any large camera setups.
Is there a coat check or locker service?
No, Water Bar does not have an official coat check. Instead, guests are expected to place jackets on chair backs or use the hooks along the walls (www.ticketfairy.com). Likewise, there is no formal locker system for bags. It’s best to keep personal items with you under your seat or at your table. Don’t bring large bags, as security may ask you to carry them – keep valuables on your person for peace of mind.