About 171 Cuba St
171 Cuba Street in Wellington is best known today as San Fran , a storied live music nightclub and bar in the heart of Cuba Street’s bohemian scene . Housed in a two-storey heritage building (the old Edilson’s Building built in 1928), it has hosted generations of music fans and night owls. Originally a shoe factory and wrestling gym, the site became the San Francisco Bath House sauna before transforming into some of the city’s most famous club venues (Ali Baba’s, The Cave, Sunset Disco, Indigo) through the late 20th century . Its distinctive façade and upstairs balcony (added in 2003) give San Fran a gritty, art-deco charm – an open-air balcony with couches and DJ spot that’s beloved on sunny Wellington days . Today San Fran is a mid-sized live entertainment venue: a central hub for rock, indie, electronic, reggae and comedy. It’s celebrated for its role in Wellington culture. As one tribute noted, it is “the capital’s home base and venue for live music and comedy”, hosting “more international live shows than any single venue in New Zealand” . In other words, 171 Cuba Street is a landmark of local nightlife – a must-visit for its history, atmosphere and iconic character amid Wellington’s vibrant Cuba Street precinct.
Events and Programming
San Fran offers a packed schedule of nightly entertainment. The programme is dominated by live music concerts , often featuring a blend of local Kiwi bands and mid-level international touring acts. Recent and upcoming shows span metal, rock, reggae, indie, hip-hop and more – for example, lineups have included surf-rock legend Donavon Frankenreiter and death-metal act Blood Incantation . Wellington staples like The Black Seeds, The Datsuns, The D4 and The Phoenix Foundation have all played here in the past , as have overseas rock, punk and world-music artists. Weekly themed nights are also common: for years San Fran has hosted special club nights like an ’80s retro ‘Atomic’ dance night (continuing a tradition from its Indigo days) . The venue even runs acoustic and comedy nights (local listings note Wednesday open-mic/acoustic shows and a comedy club on Thursdays ). In short, San Fran’s programming is eclectic – covering festival gigs, cover bands, dance parties and rock concerts nearly every night. Thrillseekers will find something from hip hop to heavy metal; comedy fans will find surprise stand-up bills; and after-hours DJs and special events keep the party going late. Tickets range with the event, but many local artist gigs fall in the NZD 20–40 range to cover costs, while larger touring acts might be $50 or more (often with door or early-bird pricing tiers). The venue typically hosts over 100 shows a year, making it one of Wellington’s busiest nightlife venues .
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for San Fran shows are sold through official outlets. You usually buy in advance via online ticketing or event sites (often linked from San Fran’s website or promoters). Physical tickets are not sold in person ahead of time – there’s no walk-up box office for advance sales . However, if a show isn’t sold out, you can often buy at the door on the night for the listed price . Popular acts (especially international or well-known Kiwi bands) tend to sell out, so it’s wise to buy as soon as tickets go on sale. Shows typically go on sale several weeks or even months before the date; following the venue’s website or social media for announcements is a good strategy. Tickets may be general admission (standing-only) or have a limited number of seated options (see below), and pricing depends on the performer – smaller local acts might be $15–30, while headline touring acts can be $50+. Special VIP or on-sell schemes are rare at this venue, but occasionally fan clubs or media partners offer presales. (If buying online, watch for service fees or meet-&-greets; if buying at the door, remember exact cash or card.) For sold-out shows, check local ticket exchanges or announcements for any released tickets. Box office hours on event days often match the advertised door time, usually around 8pm. If in doubt, contact the venue’s official channels to confirm ticketing details before the show.
Seating and Layout
San Fran is a standing-room venue with a compact layout on two levels. From the street, you enter on ground level and immediately face a stairway up to the first-floor concert space. The main floor is flat, with a stage at one end and room for a crowd of a few hundred – there is no fixed seating on this level. A back balcony runs along the opposite wall, overlooking the floor; it is partially open air and often has benches or couches (as mentioned by patrons) . The balcony seating is not tiered like a theatre, but it does provide a raised view towards the stage. Because the license requires live music, some shows may allow limited chairs against the wall on request (e.g. for accessible seating, as noted in the venue FAQ ), but by default it’s all GA standing. The balcony’s couches have reportedly made it a popular sun-drenched chill area during early evening . “Best seats” are subjective: die-hard fans often stand near the stage for immersive sound and visibility, while others prefer toward the back or on the balcony to see the whole crowd. Keep in mind the sightlines: some metal shows pack the floor, which can be busting with moshing. The loud PA is designed for high-volume rock, so expect powerful bass. If you want a break from the crowd, the balcony provides seating. Avoid blocked views like being too far peripheral or behind large pillars (there are few) – center or balcony as high up as possible gives the clearest line to the stage. Acoustically, the room is lively and full, so unless you’re at the front you may not hear quiet passages clearly; it’s built for energy, not academic listening. In summary, the layout is cozy and clubby: standing room with small bar area near the entrance, stage up front, and a popular balcony for a partial view or lounging between songs.
Getting There and Parking
Located at 171 Cuba Street in central Wellington (Te Aro), San Fran is easy to find and well-connected. It sits on Cuba Street (a one-way northbound street) between Dixon and Wigan Street. The venue is just a few minutes’ walk from the heart of the central city, including major transport hubs . From Wellington Railway Station and the main bus interchange on Bunny Street/Wellington Station, it’s roughly a 7–10 minute walk (head south on Tory St, then left on Dixon or Wakefield). Multiple bus routes stop nearby: city buses on Courtenay Place or Willis Street (e.g. lines 1, 2, 3 and others on the Cuba Street spine) and cross-city routes down Dixon/Cobham (routes like 23 to Houghton Bay, 24 to Seatoun, 14 to Kilbirnie, etc) stop within a block . The Wellington City “free” bus on Willis or the electric tram stop at the railway station also drop off in range. Since Cuba Street is flat and pedestrian-friendly, it’s walkable from most downtown points and even adjacent suburbs via bus or bike. Rideshare/delivery vehicles can approach on Dixon or Wigan, though drop-offs by Uber or taxi often happen at the corner of Cuba & Dixon (a more spacious area) – note that Cuba itself is quite narrow. As for parking, San Fran has no private lot . Street parking around Cuba is coupon-based and fills up quickly on weekends. There are public carparks within a few blocks, such as on Marion St (around $5/hour), Bute Street Care Parking, Garrett St, Victoria St and Taranaki St garages . These multi-storey and surface lots are typically $3–5 per hour (evenings maybe flat rates), but check signage. If driving, allow extra time to find a nearby coupon space or garage; weekend nights can be crowded. In practice, most visitors use public transport or ride-share. Walking from the city centre is straightforward: from Lambton Quay take either Manners or Cuba Street itself southwards, or from the station walk along Bunny St/Dixon. The official site even notes: “getting here is easy… just a short walk from the city center” . In short, travel by bus or on foot for stress-free access; if you drive, consider nearby paid parking options and pick-up/drop-off spots on Susan or Victoria Streets.
Inside the Venue
Expect a classic Wellington music-club vibe inside. The door typically opens 30–60 minutes before showtime (check your ticket); staff will scan or check tickets (and IDs if you look under 30). San Fran holds a supervised liquor licence , so it is 18+ after 8/9pm (under-18s may attend with a parent/guardian during early-evening shows ). Security is friendly but firm: expect a brief bag check at entry, especially on busier nights. Once in, you’ll find a long bar along one side of the floor level serving beer, wine, cider and cocktails. Kegs of craft beer and branded national beers (DB Draught etc) are common. Importantly, a light kitchen runs during most events – past reviews note sandwiches, burgers or snacks (live event menu via the venue website). So you can grab a meal when needed rather than empty out earlier. The ambience is lively and noisy: low lighting with club and stage lights, and walls plastered with music posters and graffiti, giving it an edgy, populated feel. Between acts you might hear local DJ sets in the lounge area (especially on weekends, continuing the tradition of balcony DJ vibes ). San Fran is not air-conditioned, but the balcony and its big windows mean it can feel breezy, or smoky when crowded (although NZ’s indoor smoking bans keep things relatively clean). Restrooms (toilets) are available upstairs on the main level; bring small change for the coin-operated soap dispensers in case. Water fountains or free tap are typically by the restrooms. There is a small cloakroom/costume check at the bar – for $2NZ per item you can leave a coat or bag instead of juggling it all night . Attire is casual: band T-shirts, jeans and boots are standard, and Wellington’s climate means a jacket if it’s cold outside. Many patrons simply stand around with friends sipping their drink. You can use your phone (quietly) but keep video recording short – flashes for photography are generally asked to be off. Wi-Fi is not advertised, so assume no public network; as in most clubs, mobile signal can be patchy inside the thick concrete walls. Overall, San Fran’s interior is a gritty, comfortable club space – packed house, energetic dance floor, and friendly bartenders. It’s famous for its balcony seating area: after waiting periods, people often head upstairs to catch a break on the sofas in the sun or to meet friends. The venue is known to get very warm when crowded, so pacing with water between beers is wise. Live Nation (the owner) has modernised sound and lights in recent years, so the PA is loud and clear – real rock music level – often blowing out cheap earplugs. Merchandise stands for touring bands may appear under the balcony, so expect merch shirt racks at bigger concerts. In short, inside 171 Cuba Street you’ll find a gritty but friendly club: good drinks, bar food, a bit of dancing space, strong music, and the cozy charm of Wellington’s DIY nightlife.
Nearby Amenities
Cuba Street is Wellington’s vibrant cafe-and-bar strip, so the area around 171 Cuba offers many options for pre-show dining, afterparty drinks and overnight stays. Planning to eat? Walk a block or two from San Fran toward the Courtenay Place end of Cuba Street and you’ll find dozens of restaurants and cafés. Popular choices include Fidel’s Café (famous local spot for all-day breakfasts and Pan-Latin dishes), Cuban Brothers (Latin grill and beer), and the ramen/gyoza bars tucked among the heritage storefronts. For quick bites, a local institution like Little Penang serves Malaysian street food just around the corner. If you want burgers or pizza, check nearby cafés like The Lollipop or Bostonian . Late-night snacks are easy: there are kebab and burger joints a short walk away on Vivian St or Courtenay. Bars around San Fran are plentiful – Golden Dawn Microbrewery and Sneaky Beaver brewpubs are within two blocks, and Oriental & Midland (the old “Gum) is near the railway ends. For a sit-down drink, nearby lounges include Whitetail Bar (on Dixon St corner) or Logan Brown (fine-dining bar on Abel Smith). On Cuba itself, you’ll find classic bars like Left Bank (craft beers) and Purple Haze. After the gig, rides home or more drinks are easy; Courtenay Place to the west and Manners Street to the north offer dozens of late-night venues. In short, finger food to fancy dinner is all blocks away on Cuba Street – you could have tacos at one venue, tapas at the next, drinks at a rooftop bar, and make it to the show on time.
Hotels and staying options: If you plan to stay nearby, good bets include the Ibis Wellington City and Novotel Wellington (both about 5-10 minutes’ walk uptown), plus boutique options like the Cambridge Hotel on Hobson Street. The Wellington on Cuba (budget inn) is literally half a block away on Cuba at Dixon. The central-city YWCA and various hosted backpacker lodgings are a few more blocks north if you’re saving pennies. The high-end InterContinental and QT Museum Hotel are a 10-minute stroll beyond the CBD but might be worth it for comfort. Overall, any Te Aro or Courtenay Place hotel is within easy walking distance of San Fran.
Getting around at night: Wellington’s late-night bus network runs until about midnight; the last buses on Cuba Street routes (like the 1, 2, 3) typically depart around 11pm or just after. After midnight, rely on rideshares or taxi. Taxis can be hailed on Dixon (near the venue) or booked by phone/app (Uber, Ola or local Wellington cab companies). If leaving by train, note the last suburban train usually departs Wellington Station by ~11pm (check Metlink schedules). Many concertgoers plan to walk to a nearby taxi rank or catch a central-night bus back to Karori, Newtown or Karori.) For safety, Cuba Street is well-lit and often busy on pub nights, but it pays to travel in pairs or groups—especially late on weekends.
What Makes This Venue Special
San Fran is cherished for its aura and history almost as much as its live acts. Musicians and locals speak of it with reverence: this is the club where many Kiwi bands got their start and where touring artists feel at home. Its close-knit crowd and intimate stage create legendary moments: bassist anecdotes mention entire audiences singing along with The Black Seeds, and footage from past shows (like punk gigs in the 90s or indie-thrash acts) are part of NZ music lore . There’s a tangible sense of legacy: posters behind the bar depict the likes of The Breeders, Royal Rumble or indie legends that played here . Architecturally, the building’s facade has original 1920s cornices and a bold stucco exterior (a rare remnant from its old nightclub days ), while inside the wooden bar and worn dance floor reflect decades of use. The open-air balcony – a broad, sunny terrace above the street – sets San Fran apart from most inner-city clubs. Patrons on a sunny afternoon can relax on couches in the middle of town (as co-owner Tim Ward once praised, it created “a great afternoon vibe” ) – a novelty that ties back to Cuba Street culture of casual mixing of daytime and nightlife. Culturally, San Fran mattered enough that in 2020 a national campaign raised over NZD $50,000 to keep it afloat during lockdown , showing how essential it was to Wellington’s scene. The week-after-Wellington journey to preserve small venues said it best: “San Fran’s more than a venue… We support our local scene and technicians, making sure those behind the scenes can make a living doing what they love” . Even casual visitors feel it: the room’s atmosphere is high-energy and a bit unpolished in a way many revel in. Longtime locals will note that San Fran is one of the last remaining spots on Cuba where you can still hear real rock blaring past midnight, with an audience that ranges from tattooed punk kids to mid-lifers reminiscing about the 80s disco nights. In short, its character is legendary: an ever-changing, all-ages (before late evening), defiantly music-focused bar with a balcony and a history as a bathhouse-turned-club. That rich past and lively present – plus memories like after-parties for Wellington’s Lord of the Rings premieres and early Flight of the Conchords comedy nights – keep San Fran at the top of many Kiwis’ venue lists .
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility & entry: San Fran unfortunately has limited wheelchair access because the main event space is up one flight of stairs . Audiences with mobility needs should contact the venue in advance to arrange assistance or check if any ground-floor seating is possible. However, there is a small side entrance, and staff have in the past helped wheelchairs (wrote the FAQ). The venue does not have a freight elevator, so assume all shows require one level of stairs. If you need a seat (for instance a collapsible chair), let the venue know – tickets are GA, but on request they may set aside a chair . What to bring/not bring: Bring your ID if you plan to buy alcohol (18+ law always enforced). New Zealand accepts most national IDs or passports, but a local photo driver’s license is ideal. Carry some cash (for emergencies or tips) though the bar takes card payments. Leave large bags behind – standard-sized bags are ok, but voters will likely check large packs. Umbrellas/strollers can be problematic in tight crowds. You can bring a small water bottle into general areas (security might empty lit and refill at the bar if needed). Helmets or hazardous objects are not allowed. Photo policy: smartphone photos (without flash) are generally tolerated; pro cameras or video setups require prior permission – if in doubt, leave the big gear at home. Common mistakes: The biggest mistake is thinking the venue is larger or more formal than it is. It’s cosy – arrive early to claim a spot, especially for headline acts. Don’t underestimate how packed the dancefloor can get: if you need personal space, the balcony or rear area is a safer bet. Also, many newcomers don’t realise it’s primarily standing-room; if you expect seats like in a theatre you’ll be disappointed . It pays to dress for a night out – no fancy cocktail attire is required, but many regulars swap their winter boots for sneakers at the door to dance. Always look at your ticket for the age policy; remember under-18s are allowed only with a parent or guardian , and the parent is responsible for them. Before the show: Arrive at the stated door time on your ticket . Promoters often open doors exactly on time, and organizers recommend getting there early to squeeze in front or grab a table if available. Lines can form up to half an hour before opening on busy nights. The venue FAQ reminds patrons: “arriving at open time is best to get a good spot” . Late arrivals may find the floor quite crowded. During the show: Keep your phone on silent (the music is loud) and be mindful of others. It’s NZ etiquette to offer others a pass or wave if you need to leave the front, and to excuse yourself politely through crowds. Vomiting laws prohibit bringing in your own alcohol or drugs – fines are heavy, and no outside drinks are allowed. Food: the bar serves food during shows , which is rare for NZ nightlife venues, so no need to sneak snacks. Toilets often have attendants – tip them a coin for soap or toilet paper if needed. If it’s very crowded, holding your place by ordering drinks upstairs or unmarried versus not is wise. Age and dress: San Fran tends to attract a down-to-earth crowd. Dress code is casual to smart-casual . Streetwear, band tees, jeans and jackets are normal. On a cold Wellington night, you might want a sturdy jacket for walking outside – the coat check can become popular when it’s full, so try to travel light. At many shows, dancers jump in and out, so footwear that can get scuffed by crowds is smart. Special needs: If you have specific requirements (dietary, mobility, or sensory), contact the venue beforehand. The staff are accustomed to helping arrange accessible entrance or a seat if possible . If loud concerts could trigger issues, bring earplugs – the PA can hit rock-concert volume. If you need lip-reading or subtitling, the venue does not typically provide this, but the small size of the audience and platform might assist hearing conversation. Local lore/insider tips: Many locals tip that the best drinks special is the Busch punch at the door; also, try the house draught beer or rotating craft taps. If there’s a balcony DJ, it’s a great spot for a breezy drink half an hour in. Some veteran concert-goers swear by waiting at the bottom of the stairs if the floor gets packed, as staff often redirect traffic there. Also, keep an eye on the ceiling: there's a bit of patina and exposed beam that often gets decorated during Wellington's arts festivals. Finally, don’t hesitate to chat with bartenders or the friendly regulars – San Fran’s community is known for being welcoming to newcomers who respect the music.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the ticket prices and where can I buy them?
Ticket prices at San Fran depend on the event: smaller local bands might charge under NZ$20–30, while headline and touring acts often range from NZ$40–60 or more. Tickets are sold online via official ticketing or the venue’s site. There is no advance box office at the venue, but if a show isn’t sold out you can buy at the door on the day (subject to availability) .
How can I get to 171 Cuba Street by public transport?
The venue is a short walk from Wellington’s central bus and train station . Simply take any city bus towards Courtenay Place/Cuba Street (routes 1, 2, 3 frequently run through central stops) or hop off the train at Wellington Station and walk southwest along Dixon Street to Cuba Street. Most inner-city buses have stops within a block of the venue. The official Getting Here guide even notes San Fran is “just a few minutes' walk from Wellington Central bus and train station” . Use your phone to check live Metlink bus and train schedules for the quickest route.
Is there parking near San Fran and how much does it cost?
San Fran has no dedicated car park . Street parking along Cuba and side streets operates on a coupon/pay-and-display system and can be scarce on busy nights. There are several public parking lots within a few minutes’ walk, including on Marion Street, Bute Street, Garrett Street, Victoria Street and the Taranaki Street carpark . Rates vary (typically NZ$3–5 per hour in central Te Aro), so check signs. Many patrons park in these lots or nearby commercial parking and walk over. Driving to Cuba Street is fine, but be prepared to pay for parking – consider coming early to find a spot.
Are there seats at the venue or is it standing only?
San Fran is primarily a general admission standing venue . Most tickets are sold as standing only and during concerts there are no fixed seats. However, if you have special needs (e.g. need a chair or accessible space), the venue can try to accommodate you – in the FAQ they note they will set aside a chair if required . A few seats or benches may be usable along the balcony edges, but you should expect to stand with the crowd by default.
Is San Fran accessible for people with disabilities?
Unfortunately, San Fran’s main stage and audience area are on the second floor, so there is no elevator for wheelchair users – the venue itself acknowledges its accessibility is limited . If you have accessibility requirements, it’s best to call or email the staff before your event. They have offered assistance (for example, moving furniture to clear space) on a case-by-case basis . Note that there is level access to the downstairs entrance, but seating and toilets are upstairs. In short, contact the venue ahead of time to see what arrangements (like reserved seating or help with stairs) can be made.
Can I bring children or teenagers to the shows?
Yes, San Fran holds a supervised license, which means minors (under 18) are allowed as long as they stay with a parent or legal guardian the entire time . Minors cannot consume alcohol, of course. Popular reforms have the venue treating children like most theaters would: you should mention in advance if a minor is coming. Typically, adults should bring a child’s age certificate (birth certificate/passport) if asked, since Wellington bars do check IDs rigorously.
Is there an on-site restaurant or bar menu?
Yes. San Fran has a small kitchen that operates during every event . In other words, food is available – typically bar-style fare like burgers, fries, pizza-slices or similar comfort food. You can often drop by the bar/food counter between sets to order from a menu board or printed menu (which is linked on the venue’s website). Bar snacks and meals tend to supplement the drinks, so don’t worry about going hungry: the FAQ explicitly states the kitchen is open at each show . The full menu can usually be found on Live Nation’s site or at the venue.
Does San Fran provide a coat check or lockers?
Yes – there is a coat check available at every show. It costs NZ$2 per item (small fee) which patrons have reported in reviews. The staff will take your jacket or bag ticket in hand at the bar and store it until you pick it up later . This is convenient when the floor gets warm, so you can stash your outer layers. Beyond the paid coat check, the venue also has some space for belongings under the bar or behind seats, but those aren’t locked. If you do bring valuables, consider carrying them on your person.
What is the vibe or dress code at San Fran?
Dress casually. San Fran’s crowd ranges from hipsters and rockers to after-work locals – you’ll fit in wearing jeans or a T-shirt and jacket. It’s common to see band tees, flannel shirts, sneakers or boots. There is no strict dress code: neat casualwear is fine. Keep in mind Wellington weather: evenings can be cool, so a snug coat or beanie outside is wise (the coat check is cheap). In summer you might even wear shorts and a tee, but the floor gets packed and warm. Think comfort and style in equal parts – just don’t show up in a suit or very formal dress expecting a ballroom environment.
How early should I arrive before a show?
Plan to arrive at doors open time (the time printed on your ticket) if you want to claim good positions . Tickets normally say, for example, “Doors at 8pm”. It’s recommended to be there right at that time to get in quickly and pick your spot (especially for popular acts). Lines can form before doors on weekends, so give yourself 20–30 minutes of buffer. If you don’t mind standing in the back or on the balcony, a later arrival is less risky, but note the venue may stop admitting people once it reaches capacity (fire code). In short, early bird often gets the front row.
Can I buy merchandise or music at San Fran?
Yes, if the performing artist has merch, there will usually be a table or stand for it inside San Fran. Typical gear includes band T-shirts, CDs or vinyl, posters etc. Look near the back bar or the balcony area – after the show, bands often mingle to sign merch. The venue itself does not sell branded souvenirs, but support the band by buying directly from their table, or purchase Wellington music compilations or local publications if available at events.
Are flash photos or video allowed during shows?
San Fran is fairly lenient on phones, but as a courtesy, flash photography is discouraged. Most shows adopt a “no flash” rule for safety. You can usually snap non-flash pictures and short videos for personal use, but professional cameras or recording without permission is not allowed. During big concerts, security may remind people to switch off flashes and to avoid obstructing others’ view with cameras. If the band specifically bans any filming, that will be announced. Otherwise, feel free to capture the vibe quietly.
What is the capacity of San Fran?
The official fire-code capacity isn’t widely published, but San Fran is classified as a mid-sized live venue. Industry listings often call it “mid-sized” , meaning it can hold a few hundred people. A reasonable estimate is around 400–600 in total (including both floor and balcony areas). It’s never a huge arena; the experience is that of a packed club rather than an auditorium. For big New Zealand bands that draw 500+ crowds, it might sell out. This smaller-scale layout is part of why shows there feel intimate.
