About 21/23 Cambridge Terrace
21/23 Cambridge Terrace is a landmark performance venue housed in a historic building at the edge of Wellington’s Courtenay Place entertainment district. Originally built in 1930 as the Wellington East (Cambridge Terrace) Post Office, the structure is a classic example of the 1920s/30s transitional Classical/Art Deco government architecture (wellingtoncityheritage.org.nz). The façade’s tall, vertical design and proportioned windows give it a distinctive heritage character. For over 60 years it served as a government post office, reflecting the importance of mail services during that era (wellingtoncityheritage.org.nz). After losing its postal function in the late 20th century it passed into private hands, eventually becoming a mixed-use space. Today, the ground floor of the building hosts b.Space (formerly known as Club 121), a club and creative performance venue, while the upper floors accommodate Base Wellington, a backpacker hostel with its own common areas and bar. This blend of historic architecture and modern nightlife makes 21/23 Cambridge Terrace both unique and culturally significant to the local scene.
Events and Programming
At 21/23 Cambridge Terrace (the b.Space/Club 121 venue) you’ll find a lively mix of music and arts events. The programming leans heavily toward live music and DJ parties, ranging from underground electronic nights to local band shows and creative arts performances. For example, in July 2022 the venue hosted a Wellington stop of the “TeethClippers on Tour” drum & bass series (www.ticketfairy.com); and in June 2024 local producer Josh Radcliffe (performing as “Pulse”) threw an EP release event there for his debut electronic record (www.ticketfairy.com). Typically events include all-ages (18+) club nights, album launch parties, indie dance concerts and themed DJs. Many nights feature local Wellington talent (DJs or bands) supported by an in-house sound system and lighting setup. Recurring events might include monthly house or techno parties, reggae or hip-hop showcases, and occasional live concerts. The venue is intimate (roughly a few dozen to a couple hundred capacity), so shows tend to sell out when popular. Overall, b.Space brings a diverse, community-oriented program to Wellington’s nightlife, from bass-heavy club nights to experimental music and creative showcases.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for events at 21/23 Cambridge Terrace are usually sold through online ticketing platforms or via the event promoters. There is no permanent box office at the venue, so most shows require purchase in advance or payment at the door. Promoters typically announce sale dates on social media or music event sites a few weeks before a show. Cover charges vary, but local club nights and independent gigs often range from about NZD $5–15, while larger special events or touring acts may be $20–30. If a show looks popular, it’s smart to buy early, as the capacity is limited. If tickets are still available on the day, you can usually pay cash or card at the door when you arrive. (One reviewer even noted the club’s “cheap drinks,” suggesting overall value is good (www.tripadvisor.co.nz).) For booked shows, be sure to arrive before or by the published door time to avoid missing headliners. In any case, checking the official b.Space/Club 121 venue page or the promoter’s page is the best way to find ticket links and on-sale dates.
Seating and Layout
Inside 21/23 Cambridge Terrace, the space is configured more like a nightclub than a theatre. There is a large open dance floor with the stage or DJ booth at one end. Seating is minimal or mobile; you might find a few bar stools or standing ledges along the walls, but most of the audience stands or dances. The room’s acoustics are tuned for high-energy live sound, so it can get loud – DJs often run a powerful PA system. The best views are usually near the middle of the floor or slightly to one side, rather than at the very back. If you want a quieter spot to chat, try near the doorway or against a side wall (though you’ll be farther from the stage). Many patrons recommend ear protection on big bass nights. There are no VIP booths or assigned seating – almost all shows are general admission standing-room. In short, expect a club-like layout: a stage/booth, dance floor, and a bar along one side, with cozy standing areas for visitors to mingle.
Getting There and Parking
21/23 Cambridge Terrace is located on the corner of Cambridge Terrace and Kent/Courtenay Place in central Wellington. Westminster transport options are excellent. The main city bus routes run on Willis Street (one block west), and several lines stop on Courtenay Place directly adjacent to the venue. For example, buses 1, 2, 23, 30X and 57 all serve Willis Street and Courtenay Place near Cambridge Terrace (moovitapp.com). The Wellington Railway Station (Johnsonville and Hutt Valley lines) is about a 10-minute walk north up Lambton Quay (moovitapp.com), and the cable car terminal (connecting Lambton Quay and Kelburn) is a short stroll away. Ferries at Queens Wharf (to Eastbourne/Petone) are also within a few blocks. Driving is less convenient in the city centre, and there is no private lot on site. On-street parking on Cambridge Terrace is very limited – roughly a dozen metered bays are available (about NZD $6 for 2 hours (www.parkopedia.co.nz)). For longer stays you can use nearby Wilson car parks. For instance, the “Lower Willis” Wilson Parking (151 Willis St) is one block away, with casual rates around NZD $4/hour (www.wilsonparking.co.nz). Other public/lots (like the one under Aotea Square or on Tory/Blair Streets) are all within a 5–7 minute walk. Taxis and rideshares can drop off on Courtenay Place or Cambridge Terrace itself.
Inside the Venue
When you enter 21/23 Cambridge Terrace, expect the vibe of a friendly urban nightclub. Doors typically have security staff who may check IDs (18+ events only) and scan for prohibited items. There is usually a front counter or doorperson to collect tickets. Inside, you’ll find the main bar near the back of the room (serving beer, wine, and mixed drinks) and a performance area up front. A small stage or DJ booth is set up at one end, often with dynamic lighting rigs overhead. The atmosphere is dark and bustling, with coloured lights and visuals during events. The venue does not have its own kitchen – food isn’t served on-site – so guests are free to bring small snacks purchased beforehand or just enjoy drinks. Restrooms are available within the space (separate for all genders), located just off the main floor. The venue may provide coat racks or a simple cloak area for personal items during shows, but if it’s a sold-out event space is tight, so try to carry only essentials. There is typically no coat-check fee. An ATM is conveniently accessible either inside or just outside (as noted by visitors) for grabbing cash, though most attenders use cards. The venue’s Wi-Fi is not generally offered to casual visitors; however, it is well within downtown Wellington, so your mobile phone should have a strong data connection. Guest are welcome to move freely around the floor or take a breather at the side-room seating by the bar when needed. Merchandise tables occasionally pop up during larger shows (for local bands or touring acts), but there is no permanent shop – so bring cash if you hope to buy event T-shirts or local CDs. Overall, the entry procedure is simple: arrive with your ID, put bags through a security check if needed, and you’ll step right into the club’s energetic lounge and dance area.
Nearby Amenities
When planning a visit to 21/23 Cambridge Terrace, you have the whole of Te Aro at your disposal. For pre-show dining, Courtenay Place and nearby Cuba Street are packed with options. You’ll find casual fare like Indian curries, Thai noodle shops and burger bars within a few minutes’ walk; for example, ramen and sushi restaurants dot Willis Street, while Cuba Street has burrito joints and Vietnamese cafes. Cooling off with a coffee or dessert? The hostel café upstairs (Base Wellington) offers simple bar snacks and drinks if you’re a guest or buy a day pass. Bars and pubs abound: the Cambridge Hotel pub (around the corner) and The Green Man Tavern on Courtney are classic bois bars, and quirky cocktail lounges and small craft breweries line Cuba Street close by. If you need more substantial dining, higher-end restaurants (for example Logan Brown or The Lark) are a 5-10 minute walk towards Lambton Quay. Several hotels are within easy reach: the heritage Cambridge Hotel is next door at 28 Cambridge Terrace, and others like Rydges on Wakefield St or Ibis on Featherston St are a 10- to 12-minute walk. Late-night transport: Wellington’s night bus network and rideshares are reliable; City Link buses run late into the evening on Courtenay Place, and Uber/taxis frequently circulate the area. If the show ends very late, note that the city centre is generally safe and well-lit, with plenty of shared-ride options available until roughly 2–3am.
What Makes This Venue Special
The unique charm of 21/23 Cambridge Terrace comes from blending a historic setting with a cutting-edge local scene. The building itself – an art deco landmark – immediately catches the eye, and once inside visitors often comment on its distinct “European club” atmosphere. In fact, one fan review proclaimed it “the closest thing NZ has to a night out in Berlin,” praising its “great lighting, awesome DJ’s and cheap drinks” (www.tripadvisor.co.nz). The intimate size of the space helps create a family-like vibe: artists and audiences can really connect, which is why local musicians often enjoy playing here. Having Club 121 (now b.Space) right below a youth hostel also means it naturally draws an adventurous crowd from around the world, keeping the energy high. Over the years the venue has hosted memorable moments – from Wellington legends spinning local dubstep and drum’n’bass to midnight EP launch parties by homegrown artists (www.ticketfairy.com) (www.ticketfairy.com). All this in a building cared for under the Courtenay Place heritage area. In short, the character of the venue comes from its storied architecture and its role as a creative hub: it’s where Wellington’s artsy, nightlife-loving community comes together, making it a beloved fixture on the city’s cultural map (wellingtoncityheritage.org.nz) (www.tripadvisor.co.nz).
Visitor Tips and Information
If you’re planning to visit 21/23 Cambridge Terrace, here are a few pointers. First, always bring valid photo ID – most events here are 18+. Dress is casual nightclub style: tidy street clothes or clubwear. The venue enforces a no-jeans-with-holes or no offensive messages rule, so wear something clean and decent. Small bag or clutch is fine, but large backpacks or suitcases (beyond the hostel guests) may be turned away for safety. Feel free to take your smartphone cameras for personal photos, but flash photography or filming large productions is generally discouraged. Arrive early if you want a good spot on busy nights – doors usually open by 9 or 10pm and peak between 10pm–1am. It can be chilly late at night, so wearing a light jacket over your outfit is wise. The club plays music loudly, so if you’re sensitive to volume, consider bringing earplugs or standing farther back. Normally, no matter where you stand you’ll be able to hear the DJs fine. The venue is on the street level (no difficult stairs at the entrance), but if you require wheelchair access it’s best to check directly with the hosts ahead (older buildings in Wellington can have quirks). Tap water is drinkable, and purchasing soft drinks or beer inside is easy – cash and cards are both accepted at the bar. Last note: since the club can end around 3–4am, plan your ride home in advance (book a taxi or check late-night bus info) so you can exit smoothly. By following these tips – ID, moderate dress, and a bit of timing – you’ll ensure an easy and fun night at 21/23 Cambridge Terrace.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of music and events take place at b.Space (21/23 Cambridge Terrace)?
b.Space hosts a variety of music and arts events, mainly club nights and live concerts. The programs often focus on electronic and bass music – DJs spinning drum’n’bass, dubstep, house, and techno – but also include indie bands, hip hop, reggae or jazz nights, and specialty showcases. For example, in mid-2024 Wellington producer Pulse did an EP launch party there (www.ticketfairy.com), and a local DnB crew brought a “TeethClippers” tour night in 2022 (www.ticketfairy.com). In short, expect a mix of dance music parties and local artist shows.
How do I get tickets for a show at 21/23 Cambridge Terrace?
Most tickets are sold online through event platforms or the promoter’s website/social media. Since there’s no on-site box office, you’ll typically buy in advance (often weeks ahead for popular gigs) via the event listing. Door sales are sometimes available on the night if a show isn’t sold out. Check the official event announcement for ticket links and prices. If you wait to buy at the door, be prepared for cash or card payment and arrive early to secure entry (especially for well-attended events).
Can I buy tickets at the venue or do I need to buy online?
There is no regular box office counter at the club, so tickets are usually sold through approved websites or promoters. For most events you can buy tickets online in advance. For smaller local gigs, even if tickets sell out online there may be door entry available (on a first-come basis) when doors open. If you aren’t sure, visit the b.Space or promoter’s page ahead of the show to see if “door tickets only” or online sale are noted.
What are the typical ticket prices for events here?
Prices vary widely by event, but in general b.Space is fairly affordable. Local DJ or indie nights often charge around NZD $5–15, while special concerts or touring acts might be $20–30. Often community or student nights are on the lower end. Check the event’s ad or website: it will list the exact cover charge. One reviewer even highlighted the venue’s “cheap drinks” (www.tripadvisor.co.nz), which suggests entry fees aren’t too high either. It’s a good idea to buy ahead for a set event, since nothing is more expensive than missing a show you wanted to see!
What public transport can I use to get to 21/23 Cambridge Terrace?
The venue is in Wellington’s CBD, so it’s well served by public transit. Buses run along Willis Street and Courtenay Place, very near Cambridge Terrace. In fact, routes 1, 2, 23, 30X and 57 all stop at or near Willis/Cambridge Place (moovitapp.com). If you prefer train, the Wellington Train Station (Lambton Quay) is about a 10-minute walk away; that station is on the Hutt Valley Line (HVL) and Johnsonville Line (JVL) (moovitapp.com). The Wellington cable car (from Lambton Quay) stops one block off, and the Queens Wharf ferry terminal (for Eastbourne/Deltora Bay ferries) is roughly a 5-minute walk. So you can easily use buses, trains, or the cable car to reach the area, then walk a block to Cambridge Terrace.
Is there parking available at or near 21/23 Cambridge Terrace?
Street parking on Cambridge Terrace is very limited – roughly a dozen pay-and-display spots (about $6 for 2 hours) are on the street (www.parkopedia.co.nz). Don’t count on free parking. If you drive, your best bet is a nearby city car park. For example, the Wilson Parking “Lower Willis” car park (151 Willis Street) is one block away and offers casual parking rates (starting around $4/hour (www.wilsonparking.co.nz)). Other CBD lots (such as Aotea Square or Tory Street car parks) are a short walk. Late at night parking restrictions are eased, but it’s still easiest to plan on paid parking or use rideshare/taxi if possible.
Will I be sitting or standing at events? Are there VIP sections?
All shows at b.Space are general-admission. The floor is basically standing-room. There are only a few stools or standing sills around the edges, so you should expect to stand or dance. There are no formal VIP tables or reserved seating areas. If you arrive early, you can grab a spot near the front by the stage or have more room at the back near the bar. People often stay on their feet, especially when DJs are playing, since the stage is only slightly raised anyway. In short: it’s a club atmosphere, so plan to mingle and stand rather than sit in chairs.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
21/23 Cambridge Terrace has a street-level entrance with only a step or two up, so it’s somewhat accessible by wheelchair, but places in older heritage buildings can vary. The main floor is all on one level once you enter. The venue does have restroom facilities on the ground floor. However, if you have specific accessibility needs (for example if even a small step is a barrier), it’s wise to contact the venue ahead of time for details. In any event, let the staff know upon arrival if you need accommodation; they are usually helpful. For parking, there are a couple of disabled bays on Courtenay Place nearby.
What items are not allowed inside?
The club has a standard venue policy. Large bags, outside food or drink, and any illegal objects are prohibited. Security will usually ask you to leave bulky backpacks or crates at the entrance. You are allowed to bring your camera phone, but professional cameras with removable lenses or flash photography might be refused. Smoking and vaping are not allowed indoors (New Zealand is fully smokefree), so any tobacco or vaping must be taken outside. If you are visibly intoxicated, the bouncer can refuse entry. Basically follow normal club rules: nothing illegal, no big bags, and you’ll be fine. If in doubt, check the specific event listing, as some shows might have additional bans (e.g. disorders or byog policies).
Is there an age limit or dress code at the club?
Yes. Almost all public events at this venue are for ages 18 and over. You must show ID at the door. Dress is casual but neat: think “club-casual.” Clean street clothes, jeans, T-shirts, and sneakers are fine. However, you should avoid extremely sloppy attire (like ripped shirts) or anything offensive. Most nights there is no strict uniform or fancy dress requirement – just be clean and presentable. On very busy weekends people often dress a bit more to hit the dancefloor, but it’s definitely not a suit-and-tie place. In short: don’t come in dirty workwear or swim shorts, but otherwise wear what’s comfortable for a night out.
Are cameras or photography permitted during events?
In general, smartphone photos and casual snapshots are allowed for personal use (without flash). However, professional photography or video filming usually requires prior permission. If you plan to take pictures with a DSLR camera, check ahead – some events ban large cameras or flashes to avoid disturbing performers. For most club nights people do use their phones on the dance floor, but be courteous: no flash, and don’t obstruct others’ view. If a concert has a “no-camera” policy, it will typically be noted on the ticketing page. As a rule of thumb, treating it like any small club: have your phone ready for a quick vid of your favorite DJ, but always ask first for any more serious photo gear.
Does 21/23 Cambridge Terrace have a bar and food options?
Yes, there is a bar inside the venue serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks (beer, wine, cider, spirits, mixers, and soft drinks). Since the venue holds a liquor license (operating until around 4am), you can buy beer or spirits at the club at all club nights. There isn’t a full restaurant kitchen on site, so they don’t make meals. If you want food, arrange to eat before coming, or grab something quick from nearby eateries (many food carts and takeaways on Courtenay Place). Some nights, food trucks or pop-up snack stalls may set up just outside the door. But no, the club itself only has a drinks bar – expect a limited snack menu at best (like chips or candy) if anything.
Are there restrooms and coat checks available?
Yes – restrooms (toilets) are provided without charge. There are separate facilities for all genders on the ground floor (right off the main area). They are simple and may get crowded during peak times, so plan accordingly. As for coats and bags, there is no formal staffed coat-check, but events sometimes provide a rack or space near the entrance where you can leave a coat or small bag behind the door. This is free of charge. It’s safest to keep valuables on you (or in your pockets) – but guests often prop their jackets on chairs or behind the bar if needed. The venue staff expects people to manage their own small belongings.
What is the capacity of the venue?
The room is fairly small compared to big concert halls. Official capacity isn’t publicly posted, but in practice it holds on the order of a couple of hundred people at most. This keeps the space cozy and energetic – you’ll be quite close to the performers and fellow fans. Even so, popular nights can reach capacity. If a poster says “sold out,” that means they’ve hit their limit. Otherwise, there’s usually space to stand or dance. In any case, consider it a mid-size club setting rather than a sprawling arena.
When do events at b.Space usually start and finish?
Most shows and club nights have door times late in the evening (often around 9pm or 10pm) and run until around 2–4am, depending on the day and performers. Typically the headliners come on after midnight. Check the specific event listing – some concerts have afternoon or early-evening start times (e.g. 7pm) for acoustic or all-ages shows. For later parties on weekends, you can expect very late nights. It’s best to arrive at or before the listed start time to avoid missing the first acts or getting stuck in line. After 4am the lights come on and the venue closes.
What was at 21-23 Cambridge Terrace before it became a club venue?
Originally it was Wellington’s Cambridge Terrace Post Office (built 1930) (wellingtoncityheritage.org.nz). It served in that role for over 60 years (wellingtoncityheritage.org.nz) and then became privately owned commercial space. In later decades it was known as “Oriental Chambers” and later housed offices or even served as a hostel. In the 2000s the building was taken over by Base Wellington Backpackers (which still occupies the upper levels) and the street-level became a music and nightclub (branded “Club 121” in the 2010s). Today it carries on a long legacy – from mail service hub to an arts-and-entertainment venue – all in this art-deco heritage building.