About 1/10 Waterloo Quay
“1/10 Waterloo Quay” is the street address of The Waterloo Bar & Grill , a central-city pub and eatery on Wellington’s waterfront. It occupies Suite 1 of the new PwC Centre at 10 Waterloo Quay, on the corner of Waterloo Quay and Bunny Street (www.cvent.com ). The venue is housed in the original Art Deco Hotel Waterloo building (constructed 1936–37), which was long leased to NZ Breweries (wellingtoncityheritage.org.nz ). It is one of Wellington’s finest Art Deco landmarks – indeed heritage notes call it “one of the first podium and tower structures in Wellington” (wellingtoncityheritage.org.nz ) – now integrated into the modern PwC Centre. The PwC Centre (owned by Arthur Investment Group) is an Athfield Architects design that earned a five-star NZ Green Building rating and a 2019 Supreme Commercial Project award, with an advanced 180% NBS seismic rating (www.nabersnz.govt.nz ). In other words, this venue combines historic charm (signage and façade from the 1930s hotel) with a new, high-tech office tower behind it.
The Waterloo Bar & Grill is notable locally for its waterfront location by the train station and ferry terminal (opposite the iconic ferry Bluebridge Terminal), alongside major Nouvelle-New-Zealand architecture. Inside, it has a classic pub feel in a polished brick-and-beam space (refurbished from a former “Ferrymans” pub) (www.cvent.com ). Although it’s basically a bar/restaurant rather than a concert hall, it’s become a popular after-work and social hangout for the Lambton Quay business district and PWC Centre workers. Its seating capacity is modest – about 35 seated patrons at once – but it can accommodate up to around 65 people including standing areas in its private function room (www.cvent.com ). This intimate scale makes it more like a neighbourhood pub than an arena, but its quality fit-out and waterfront views give it a special character.
Events and Programming
The Waterloo Bar & Grill doesn’t run regular concerts or big touring shows, but it does host a variety of social and entertainment events. Think themed brunches, DJs, drag performances, quizzes and small live-music nights rather than full-scale theatre productions. For example, promotional listings show the venue hosting a “Wicked Brunch” – a movie-themed drag brunch – in November 2025 (www.ticketfairy.com ). It can also be booked for private parties, karaoke nights or community gatherings in its function space. (www.cvent.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ) Sports fans will find big screens for rugby, soccer and other games on weekends. Overall, look for pub-style entertainment: quiz nights, big-screen sports viewing, casual live bands or DJs on busy nights and special brunches or events on weekends. Tickets typically aren’t needed for most evenings (it’s walk-in), but special ticketed events – like the $39 Wicked Brunch (www.ticketfairy.com ) – are sold separately.
Tickets and Booking
There is no traditional box-office or fixed ticketed lineup for The Waterloo, since it operates mainly as a bar/restaurant. Most evenings and weekends you simply walk in (especially during happy hour and dinner). However, for special events (like themed party brunches or pub quizzes) tickets may need to be bought in advance online or through the venue. For instance, one listing shows tickets for a “Wicked Brunch” event at $39 (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you need guaranteed seating for a private function or a large group, it’s best to contact the pub directly to make a booking. Otherwise, most dining and drinks are pay-as-you-go – just arrive, take a seat and order at the bar. There are no assigned seats for general admission, so for busy nights it can pay to arrive early. In summary: for normal visits no ticket is required and there’s no box office; booked reservations are only needed for private events or sell-out special events.
Seating and Layout
The Waterloo’s layout is a single-level pub floor with a bar, tables and a small raised function area. Overall it’s quite compact – as noted by Cvent, the main “private function space” can seat about 35 people and accommodate around 65 standing (www.cvent.com ) (www.cvent.com ). In practice, the venue has roughly 10–12 tables and bar seating for a few patrons at a time, with extra room in an adjacent back area. There’s an indoor bar counter on one side and an open front with windows sweeping the street corner. If you want a table, sitting along the wall or by the windows gives a good view of the room and any TV screens, whereas the standalone tables in the center provide more privacy. There are no formal VIP or numbered seats – it’s first-come, first-served. During big events or peak times the small function nook is often used for standing mingle space. For a quieter meal, try sitting along the sides; for watching sports or shows use the big-screen TVs placed above the bar. In short, treat it like a standard NZ pub layout: comfy booths and tables plus bar stools, all in one open space.
Getting There and Parking
1/10 Waterloo Quay is extremely easy to reach. It sits on the Wellington waterfront at the corner of Bunny Street and Waterloo Quay (www.cvent.com ). In fact it’s right opposite Wellington Railway Station: the station’s entrance and the Bluebridge ferry terminal are just across the road (www.tripadvisor.com ). This means nearly any train line into Wellington will drop you at the stop right in front of the venue. In practice, take any suburban or intercity train to Wellington Station, pass through the station concourse, and you’ll be on Bunny Street – walk a few steps and you’re there. All of the main bus routes also converge near the station/Bunny St hub, plus the city’s main ferry services land at Queens Wharf a few minutes’ walk north.
If you drive, parking options are somewhat limited but available. The nearest secure lot is the Wilson “Station” Car Park at 83 Waterloo Quay (just east of the pub). Entry is via Waterloo Quay and rates are about NZ$4 per hour (or ~$32–$40 for a 12-hour stay) (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ). There’s no free parking streetside, so pay parking or nearby lots are recommended. Council-operated Barnett Street (Frank Kitts Park) and Clyde Quay parking buildings are a 5–10 minute drive north – both charge about $5 per hour on weekdays (and $3/h evenings/weekends) (wellington.govt.nz ) (wellington.govt.nz ). (The Barnett St lot is $5/h Mon–Fri with daily max ~$20 (wellington.govt.nz ).) On-street parking around Bunny Street and Hutt Road is short-duration only. For drop-off or Uber/taxis, the corner of Waterloo Quay and Bunny is convenient – taxis frequently stand by the station entrance.
Inside the Venue
Expect a classic inner-city pub atmosphere. The Waterloo Bar & Grill has polished timber floors, exposed brick or dark wood walls, and warm lighting. Beneath the heritage façade is a modern layout: multiple TV screens (for sports and background), pendant lighting over the bar, and brass or leather-upholstered chairs/booths. Patrol the bar for a mix of cocktails, local craft and mainstream beers, wines and typical pub spirits. Guest reviews note that the pub serves solid Kiwi pub fare on site. For example, the menu features burgers, ribs and steaks alongside traditional dishes – fish & chips ($12) and the famed New Zealand lamb shank pie (roughly $15–$19) (lunchtime.co.nz ) (lunchtime.co.nz ). Vegetarian options are also on the menu (e.g. “Homemade Vegetarian Cakes” with potato/pumpkin-veg patties) (lunchtime.co.nz ). Prices are moderate by Wellington standards (entrees and mains mostly NZ$12–20). You order at the bar and can eat at any table. A licensed gaming room (pokie machines and TAB betting screens) is also on-site (www.cvent.com ), so you’ll see some patrons at slot machines in a back corner. Staff typically clear orders via wait service, and there’s a simple coat-stand (no formal cloakroom). Restrooms are on premises and should be modern (the building is new), and Wi-Fi is often available in such city pubs (though always confirm in person). Overall expect a lively but friendly vibe: successive groups of city workers, visitors and sports fans mingling over beer and meals. Small dance parties or gigs could be set up in the private room, but generally it’s a place for chatting, eating or watching games rather than sitting through a formal show.
Nearby Amenities
Being on the waterfront means you’re steps from Wellington’s attractions and services. Right outside is the new Wellington City to Waterfront promenade, perfect for a post-bar stroll. The National Library, Wellington Railway Station, and the main ferry terminals are literally across the street. A 5-minute walk south brings you to Te Papa Tongarewa (the national museum) and the Princess Wharf restaurant precinct. Within 10–15 minutes on foot you reach Lambton Quay – the heart of Wellington’s CBD – packed with shops, cafés (for daytime snacks) and more bars. Notable nearby restaurants include the eateries of the Clyde Quay Quarter (like The Grove or Hawthorn Lounge), and Lambton Quay’s fine-dining and casual scene. For pre- or post-show dining, choose from sushi bars, Italian trattorias or classic Kiwi cafés in the area. Hotels are also close: the Hotel Waterloo & Backpackers lodging is in the same building and has its own restaurant, and well-known hotels (InterContinental, Ohtel, Ibis) are a short walk away on Lambton Quay. If you’re staying overnight, this block is very convenient. The area has ample cafés, a pharmacy and an NZ Post office along Bunny Street as well, plus the weekend Harbourside Market a block north (refreshment stands on Sundays). Finally, the major sports/entertainment venues are within easy reach: the TSB Arena/Westpac Stadium is one stop further on the waterfront path, and the outdoor Frank Kitts Park offers city views and summer events.
What Makes This Venue Special
Several things make 1/10 Waterloo Quay stand out. First is the architecture and heritage . You’re essentially in a bit of 1930s Wellington – the art deco style of the original Hotel Waterloo is palpable in the façade and neon signage that still adorn the entrance (wellingtoncityheritage.org.nz ). Heritage experts note that when it was built (1936–37), Waterloo Hotel was celebrated as “one of the finest hotels in the city” (wellingtoncityheritage.org.nz ), and it pioneered the podium-and-tower design in NZ. Today this old façade merges with a cutting-edge office tower, a rare blend of vintage and modern design: for example, NABERSNZ praised the PwC Centre (which houses this venue) with a top award for its earthquake-proof “180% NBS” structure (www.nabersnz.govt.nz ). In short, it’s a survivor: old hotel bones used every day by Wellingtoners new and old.
Second is the waterfront location . Being right on the harbour makes it inherently scenic – sail boats go by, fishing boats tie up nearby, and the green space of Frank Kitts Park is opposite. Many locals mention in reviews that you can step outside on Bunny Street and be at the ferry or marine parade – it really feels like a gateway to the water (www.tripadvisor.com ). Culturally, the venue has also had a role: decades ago live music was already a draw (even an old 1938 dinner menu credits “the Cameo Three” band in the lounge) (natlib.govt.nz ). Today it keeps that social vibe alive with live pub music or DJ sets on weekends. Finally, for regulars it’s cherished as a comfortable “home away from home” (www.cvent.com ) in a changing city. It’s a place where locals have long met for beers after work or pre-concert suppers (especially before heading to nearby TSB Arena). The combination of friendly pub atmosphere, historic charm and a killer location on the water – plus the quiet buzz of commuters at the adjacent station – gives this address a one-of-a-kind feeling in Wellington’s scene.
Visitor Tips and Information
Opening hours : The venue keeps long hours. Its liquor licence runs daily until 3 am (wellington.govt.nz ), so it’s essentially open from late morning (around 11am) until after midnight. (A recent application aimed to start even earlier at 10am (wellington.govt.nz ), which hints that weekend brunches or breakfasts are served.) In practice, expect it to open for lunch and stay open through the night. Age : It’s fully licensed, so the drinking age is 18+. Under-18s are generally only allowed if accompanied by a parent and only until early evening (as per NZ liquor law). Bring a valid photo ID if you plan to drink. Seating : With only ~35 seats, tables can fill up at peak times. Arriving early on Friday/Saturday or on game-days is wise if you want a spot at a table or to guarantee entry for an event. On busy nights people often stand around the bar or mingle in the private side area. If you prefer a quiet meal, late afternoon on weekdays is best.
Attire & policy : Dress is totally casual – typical city pub fare. No formal dress code or enforced themes, just wear what you’d normally wear to a bar. There’s no coat-check; just hang your jacket on the chair or back of a booth. You may see security or staff checking bags at night for alcohol/music events, which is routine. Photography is allowed (it’s a public space), just be discreet with any flash or tripods. Large bags or unusual objects might be inspected on entry. Smoking: indoor smoking is banned by law, but they likely have an outdoor smoking area or permit smoking in the covered deck (if any). Service animals (guide dogs) of course are welcome.
Accessibility : Because it’s at street level in a new building, access is straightforward. The entrance has no steps, and the floor plan is open. Wheelchair users should be able to enter and use the restrooms (the whole PwC Centre is modern wheelchair-friendly). If you have special needs, it’s still wise to call ahead and ask (but generally it’s considered accessible).
Food and dress : It’s a bar food kitchen, so casual clothing and comfort are the norms. A light jacket might be handy if you sit outside on the deck on a Wellington evening (it can be breezy by the harbour!). During the day, Wellington weather can change quickly – if it’s a sun-soaked lunch you might end up with bright windows behind you. If you’re watching a late-football match, know that the atmosphere can get loud and crowds boisterous, so earplugs or solid shoes may help older listeners!
Transit tips : Being 200m from Wellington Station means you rarely need a car. If arriving by train or ferry, you literally walk forward from the station and the venue is in front of you. If you book an Uber or taxi, have them drop you on Bunny Street right by the corner (the address or “Waterloo Hotel” are well-known to drivers). There’s also a Wellington City Shuttle bus that stops on Bunny directly outside. If you have a car, use the Station Car Park on Waterloo Quay (open 24/7) – cashless pay by phone or card at entry (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ). Do check closing hours on any day if you need overnight parking, since some city lots (like nearby Barnett St) lock up late at night (wellington.govt.nz ).
Local customs : It’s common for New Zealanders to tip minimally, so rounding up or a $2–$5 tip is appreciated for good service but not mandatory. Kiwi pubs often have a “no unaccompanied minors after 8pm” rule – just keep that in mind if you’re with younger family. Also, remember that in NZ pubs they don’t automatically shred cigarettes – use the ashtrays provided or smoking zone outdoors. Lastly, be aware that major summer or sports events (like rugby test days) make the bar busier and more festive, so reservations or longer waits are likely on those dates.
Is there a ticket or entry fee to visit 1/10 Waterloo Quay?
No formal ticket is needed for normal pub visits. The Waterloo Bar & Grill operates as a typical bar/restaurant, so you can just walk in during opening hours free of charge. Only special events or themed brunches may have a cover ticket (for instance, a "Wicked Brunch" was offered at $39 (www.ticketfairy.com )). Otherwise it’s pay-your-own-meals and drinks, with no door fee.
How can I make a booking or buy tickets for events at this venue?
There is no central box office for daily visits. For special events (private parties, quizzes or themed brunches) you may book directly with the motel or check event sites like Ticket Fairy. For example, tickets to the “Wicked Brunch” were sold online there (www.ticketfairy.com ). For regular dining, bookings can be made by phoning the bar or using their website if available. Walk-ins are always welcome, but large groups or private functions should reserve in advance.
What are the opening hours of The Waterloo Bar & Grill at 1/10 Waterloo Quay?
Typical hours run from late morning through the late night. Officially the venue’s liquor licence is 11:00 am–3:00 am every day (wellington.govt.nz ), and a proposal even aims to open at 10:00 am on weekends (wellington.govt.nz ). In practice it usually opens around lunchtime (11am or noon) and remains open until after midnight. Check their website or call on the day if you need exact times, but expect it to serve lunch, afternoon drinks and stay running until the early hours.
What is the seating capacity and layout like inside?
According to the venue’s listing, the main dining area seats about 35 people and up to 65 if including standing room in its private function space (www.cvent.com ). The layout is one open room with a bar on one side and tables/booths. There’s also a small raised or separate section used for functions. No permanent theatre-style seating is used – just standard pub tables and chairs. So it feels intimate: expect roughly a dozen tables indoors, plus the private nook. During events some patrons simply stand or mix between tables and the bar.
Where is 1/10 Waterloo Quay located and what public transit is nearby?
The address “1/10 Waterloo Quay” (Suite 1, 10 Waterloo Quay, Wellington) is on Waterloo Quay at Bunny Street. It’s literally across from Wellington Railway Station (www.tripadvisor.com ). This means virtually every train line out of Wellington drops you at its front door – just walk out of the station onto Bunny St and you see the venue. The main bus interchange is also adjacent. The Bluebridge and Interislander ferry terminals are a short walk along the waterfront (as one reviewer notes, the pub is “right opposite the Wellington railway station and ferry] terminal” ([www.tripadvisor.com )). In short, public transit is abundant: trains, buses and ferries all converge at Bunny/Waterloo.
What are the parking options and costs near the venue?
Parking is paid nearby. The closest car park is Wilson’s Station Car Park at 83 Waterloo Quay, just a minute’s walk away – entry via Waterloo Quay – with rates from about $4 per hour (roughly $32–$40 for 12 hours) (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ). City-owned lots like the Frank Kitts/Barnett St car park or Clyde Quay are also within a 5–10 minute drive; these charge around $5 per hour on weekdays ($3/h evenings) (wellington.govt.nz ) (wellington.govt.nz ). Street parking on Bunny or opposite Flying hours is limited (and metered). Rideshare or taxis can drop you on Bunny St beside the station or on Waterloo Quay right in front of the building.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes – the venue is on a single ground-floor level with step-free entry (in a modern building). The main entrance has no stairs, and the space is open plan, so wheelchairs can move around. The building (PwC Centre) is relatively new and compliant. Accessible restrooms should be available onsite, but if you have special requirements it’s wise to call ahead to confirm any specific facilities (such as lift access to a back room). In general, Wellington’s CBD and this building were designed with accessibility in mind.
What kind of food does The Waterloo Bar & Grill serve?
It serves a full pub-style menu. Think classic Kiwi bar fare and comfort food – burgers, steaks, ribs, fish & chips and local favorites. For example, the menu includes items like a bacon & egg BLT burger and fish & chips (~NZ$12) (lunchtime.co.nz ), and even a signature lamb shank pie (around $15–19) (lunchtime.co.nz ) (lunchtime.co.nz ). Sandwiches, nachos and vegetarian dishes (like potato and vegetable cakes (lunchtime.co.nz )) also appear. Overall expect hearty mains in the NZ$12–20 range, plus bar snacks and drinks. Gluten-free or vegan diners should ask the staff – some pubs can accommodate dietary needs even if not all menu items are marked.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options on the menu?
Yes. Although it’s a grill, the lunch menu explicitly lists vegetarian items. For example, it offers “Homemade Vegetarian Cakes” (potato/pumpkin patties with salad) (lunchtime.co.nz ) and meat-free nachos. You’ll also find salads and sides that can be made vegetarian. Vegan options are more limited, but they can typically substitute or omit dairy items. (If you have strict dietary needs, it’s best to call ahead. Based on similar venues, they can often accommodate requests, even if they don’t advertise a full vegan section.)
What is the dress code and atmosphere like?
It’s very casual. The Waterloo Bar & Grill attracts office workers in shirt sleeves, rugby fans in jerseys, and tourists in jeans – almost everyone comes dressed down. There is no formal dress code , but smart casual is common in the evenings. The atmosphere is friendly and informal, as in any New Zealand pub: you might chat across wooden tables, watch the game together, or sink back with craft beer at the bar. (That said, some patrons do dress up a bit on Friday/Saturday nights out – but there’s never any strict requirement.)
Are children allowed at this venue?
Because the venue is fully licensed, it’s primarily an adults’ space. Minors (under 18) may be allowed in without drink if they are with a parent or guardian and not disrupting the venue. In practice this means children often visit for an early dinner (and must leave by 8–9pm). The venue is not specifically geared for families (no kids’ menu, limited high chairs, etc.), so under-12s are rare except at lunchtime. Always check if bringing kids; most Wellington pubs follow the rule that minors accompanied by adults may stay until the early evening.
Is there a coat check or luggage storage on-site?
No formal coat-check or locker service is available. There’s just a coat rack or space to fold jackets near the entrance. If you have bags or coats, you generally bring them to your table or lean them against a wall. This is common in Wellington pubs; high-value items should be watched carefully. In short, treat it like any casual bar – hold onto your bag or jacket, or hang it in your seating area.
What are the nearest restaurants and bars for pre- or post-show meals?
You’re surrounded by choices. The waterfront area offers casual spots (like the vegie burgers at The Shed), while Lambton Quay 10 minutes’ walk south has dozens of dining options (Italian, Thai, sushi and NZ-style fusion). Nearby in Bunny Street/the railway station area there’s a café and fast-food outlets. For a sit-down meal before a concert, try restaurants at Queens Wharf or the Clyde Quay Quarter (about 700m away) – they have seaside views. If you prefer a quick bite, many Wellington office workers use the fast-casual places on Lambton Quay (burgers, sushi bars, salad shops) which are about a 10–12 minute walk from Broadway. Late at night, the bar itself is one of the later spots on the waterfront. In summary, nearly every cuisine is a short walk away in the CBD – just head inland towards Lambton Quay or along Queens Wharf for diverse options.
What is the official name of the venue at 1/10 Waterloo Quay?
The business operating at 1/10 Waterloo Quay is called The Waterloo Bar & Grill . Although the original building was known as Hotel Waterloo, the ground-floor pub is branded as The Waterloo. (Some licensing records refer to it as the “Duke of Wellington” at that address, but signage and marketing all call it The Waterloo Bar & Grill (www.cvent.com ).)
