About 71/69 Courtenay Place
The venue at 69–71 Courtenay Place is known as The Grand Wellington , a multi-level bar and restaurant in the heart of the Te Aro entertainment district. It occupies a handsome heritage building (circa 1900) that once housed shops, butchers and tea rooms (www.ticketfairy.com ). The Grand blends old-world architecture with modern bar culture: its brochure even boasts a “feel of a former grandeur” with classical details and a feature stone-grill dining experience (www.ticketfairy.com ) (thegrandwellington.com ). Housed across five floors, each level has its own bar and atmosphere. The decor often references its history – for example, a vintage 1930s steel-cage elevator (with a built-in bench) carries guests between levels, a unique feature that visitors frequently remark on (www.ticketfairy.com ). On the ground floor you’ll find a full restaurant with a central stone-grill for cooking steaks at the table, while upper floors mix lounges, craft-beer taps, and cocktail spaces. The topmost level (the “ABV” rooftop bar) offers heated/sheltered seating and city views (www.ticketfairy.com ). In sum, The Grand is a distinctive Wellington venue thanks to its heritage building and lively multi-tier layout; it is widely regarded as a key nightlife hub and social venue in Courtenay Place, marrying historic character with contemporary pub ambiance.
Events and Programming
The Grand primarily functions as a bar and dining venue, so it does not have a fixed theatrical season, but it hosts a rotating mix of live entertainment and themed nights. Weeknight programming often includes quizzes, karaoke or DJ sets, while weekends tend to feature club nights or local bands/DJs. For example, Wellington hip-hop and reggae acts regularly play here – one local rapper (Spawnbreezie) performed a late-night set at The Grand in January 2025 (www.ticketfairy.com ). The venue is licensed to stay open late (typically until 4am on busy nights), so it’s a popular spot for dancing and socializing after shows or late dinners elsewhere. Recurring events can include a weekly quiz night (previously called “Grand Quiz”) as well as festive parties for holidays. Sports fans also tune in here on big game nights, thanks to TV screens on each level.
Since The Grand is fundamentally a bar, most events have casual entry. Many nights have no cover charge—guests simply pay as they go for food and drink. On special occasions (like club nights or ticketed band gigs), there may be a modest door charge or pre-sold tickets, usually ranging around NZ$10–20 (www.ticketfairy.com ). Such events are typically advertised on social media or ticketing platforms. Apart from private functions, the vibe is mixed: some events are all-ages (early evening dining), but most after-dark shows are capped at 18+ due to the late bar licence. In short, you’ll find everything from laid-back pub trivia and dinner service to lively dance nights – reflecting The Grand’s versatile role in Wellington’s entertainment scene.
Tickets and Booking
For general visits, The Grand operates primarily on a walk-in basis rather than advance ticketing. There is no formal box office; most nights are free-entry or just cash cover at the door (www.ticketfairy.com ). If a special concert or DJ night is planned, those events might require advance tickets through local ticket outlets. When that happens, tickets usually go on sale weeks ahead and can sell out (popular club shows at Courtenay Place often do). The safest strategy is to check official event listings or The Grand’s Facebook page ahead of time. For dinner or large groups, reservations are recommended: calls or emails to the venue’s phone (04 801 7800) or email address (on their website) can secure a table. Bookings are especially wise for weekend evenings or when dining with more than 4–6 people.
Pricing is straightforward for food and drinks: main courses run roughly NZ$25–35, pub-friendly appetizers and burgers around NZ$15–25, and a broad craft-beer list in the $8–12 range (www.ticketfairy.com ). Cocktails and spirits are typically NZ$15–20. If there is a cover on a late-night event, it will usually be noted in advance and collected at the entrance (often electronic tickets or door staff take care of it). In short: for casual visits, just bring payment; for major events or private functions, plan ahead. The Grand’s staff can explain any covers, pre-sale or door ticket options for special performances. (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Seating and Layout
The Grand’s five distinct levels give it a vertical layout rather than one large hall. The ground floor is a full-service restaurant and bar, anchored by the Stone Grill (a communal hot-stone tabletop for guests to grill steaks) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Above that, the first-floor “Balcony Bar” is an open lounge with banquette seating and windows overlooking Courtenay Place (www.ticketfairy.com ). The second floor up is the more intimate “Lounge Bar” (about 200-person capacity), perfect for quieter drinks or small gigs (www.ticketfairy.com ). Finally, the top floor is the ABV bar and rooftop terrace: this climate-controlled cocktail lounge opens onto an outdoor terrace with city views (www.ticketfairy.com ). There is also a sheltered courtyard dubbed the Garden Bar (between levels, about 100-capacity) used for outdoor seating and events (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Because there are no fixed assigned seats, seating is mostly general admission. Guests can choose any available tables or bench-corners on a first-come basis. A key “best seat” depends on your preference: for people-watching and views, the balcony windows and rooftop terrace are top choices (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you want to dance or be near live sound, try the lower lounges; they are more lively on party nights. Acoustically, noise carries easily due to open stair wells, so if you prefer a quiet chat, the ground floor restaurant or less-busy zones upstairs are better. One unique perk is the antique cage-style brass elevator: it has a built-in wooden bench and is still used to travel between floors. It’s slow but nostalgic – many guests ride it just for the novelty (www.ticketfairy.com ). In general, no area is strictly “bad,” but near the main bar areas can feel busiest during peak drink hours. VIP or reserved sections are not normally set aside, though large private bookings may block off a whole floor.
Getting There and Parking
69–71 Courtenay Place sits in central Te Aro (Wellington 6011) at the corner of Blair Street. This location is very well-connected. Multiple city buses stop right on Courtenay Place, serviced by most downtown routes (e.g. any bus running up Willis or Lambton Quay will stop within a block) (www.ticketfairy.com ). For example, the #1, #7 and Airport Flyer all pass nearby. Wellington Railway Station (at Bunny Street/Quay) is about a 15-minute walk north, or one bus stop away. If you’re driving, note that The Grand itself has no dedicated parking lot. Street parking is limited and metered (mostly 1–2 hours). However, several public car parks are nearby: Wilson car parks on Willis Street (151 Willis St) and at the base of the InterContinental hotel (Grey Street) are a short walk. Rates vary but typically around NZ$2–3 per half-hour. In the evenings after 6pm, street parking meter times may run free or relax, but double-check local signs.
Taxis and rideshares (Uber, Ola) can easily drop you off on Courtenay Place – just mention “outside The Grand” on the corner. There is a taxi rank on nearby Willis Street as well. However, many locals prefer walking or public transit given the city-centre location. If arriving by coach (InterCity buses), most routes stop near Lambton Quay/Quay Street (about 10 minutes’ walk) or at Te Papa (Closest to Courtenay is the Vivian/Worser Bay end, still a 10–15 min walk). For air travelers, the Airport Flyer bus stops on the Courtenay Place-CV loop (make sure to alight at the Railway Station stop). Overall, it’s easy to reach The Grand on foot, bike or public transport, and it’s only a short walk from most central hotels.
Inside the Venue
From the street, you’ll enter into The Grand’s dark-wood lobby/bar. Staff usually welcome guests at the door, especially on busy nights. You may get a quick ID check if it’s after 9pm (the venue is an Adults-Only licensed space during late hours). Security is discreet but will politely confiscate any outside drinks. Large bags may be screened at peak times (there’s an open cloakroom area behind the bar, but no formal checkrooms). The overall atmosphere is lively and social – during evening hours you’ll hear a mix of pop, funk or live DJs, and the lighting is warm and theatrical (vintage sconces on wood-paneled walls).\u00a0
Food and drink are a big attraction. The kitchen serves pub-style meals from morning until late (the menu includes salads, burgers, fish & chips and steaks). The Stone Grill allowing diners to cook their own steak is a signature item. Bar menus span craft beers (NZ microbrews plus international), house wines, and classic cocktails (e.g. martinis and whiskies). There are weekly specials – for instance, they often promote a “Grand Chicken Parmigiana” deal on social media (thegrandwellington.com ). Bartenders are generally knowledgeable and friendly. There is free Wi-Fi throughout (look for “The Grand Guest” network) so you can check show schedules or stream music while you wait. Restrooms are on each floor (signposted; the main restrooms are on level 1 and 2). A changing table is available in the ground-floor restroom for families. If you need to charge devices, outlets are usually along bar counters.
Connectivity-wise, mobile reception is good throughout (the historic building has been retrofitted for modern needs). As for entertainment, aside from DJs there’s often screens showing sports or cultural broadcasts. The vibe is inclusive and unpretentious – patrons range from office workers grabbing a post-work drink, to theatre crowds evidenced by locals in show attire. The Grand typically doesn’t allow outside performers or buskers without prior arrangement, but sometimes spontaneous singing or small jazz combos appear at brunch. Merchandise isn’t sold (they have no store-front), but you may find flyers for upcoming homegrown festivals or band gigs near the bar. Overall, expect a fun, grounding pub environment with a bit of historical flair: one tip is to stop and examine the old photographs and brass plaques inside that hint at Courtenay Place’s past.
Nearby Amenities
Courtenay Place is Wellington’s nightlife and theatre hotspot, so there’s no shortage of nearby amenities. Many patrons combine an evening at The Grand with pre-show dining or late-night snacks at local eateries. Directly across the street is a small cafe (open day and night) for coffee or brunch. Just a block away on Willis Street are casual sushi bars and Asian eateries popular for quick pre-drinks meals. For sit-down dinners, the highly regarded French bistro Boulot and Peruvian grill Marin are within walking distance (great for special occasions before a night out). If you want burgers or pub food, The Library Tavern around the corner on Colombo St has affordable bites (and even a small rooftop).
For onward plans, there are several late-night bars nearby. For example, The Establishment (on Courtenay Place itself) is a popular late bar, and a bit further up Willis Street there are craft breweries and cocktail lounges. Cinemagoers will note The Grand is just two minutes from Reading Cinemas (3 Courtenay) and five minutes from the Embassy Theatre, so it’s common to have pre or post-game drinks here.
Travel-wise, Wellington’s pedestrian paths connect easily; a 5-minute walk north takes you to Lambton Quay’s shops and buses, and 10 minutes south to Cuba Street’s cafes. Several hotels sit in the block: the Oaks Embassy Apartment Hotel is attached to The Grand building (handy for overnight guests), while the InterContinental on Grey Street and Travelodge on Willis St are 3–5 minutes’ walk. There are also parking buildings (like a Wilson lot) one block up Willis Street if you end up driving. Taxis queue up near Reading Cinema or on Willis St after midnight.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Grand’s charm comes from its blend of turn-of-last-century elegance and casual pub culture. The original building (once part of Huddart Parker’s shipping offices) features high cast-iron ceilings and wood paneling, making it feel more like a retro ocean liner than a modern bar (thegrandwellington.com ). This heritage is unique in Wellington’s bar scene – many visitors note it feels more “old-world” than other sleek modern clubs. Cultural significance comes from being a lively social hub; it has become a rite-of-passage for Wellingtonians and a cultural landmark during long weekends or festivals. In the 2010s it even became known as an inclusive space for diverse crowds, continuing Courtenay Place’s tradition as an entertainment strip.
Throughout its history, The Grand has hosted hundreds of performances. Fan-curated archives list dozens of drum’n’bass, dubstep and hip-hop shows held here over the past decade (www.concertarchives.org ). Legendary moments include genre nights like local DJ showcases and overseas electronic acts (the venue’s intimate size means big-name EDM DJs sometimes play here as a special club gig). The rooftop “ABV” bar also carved a niche: locals claim it has some of the best cocktails in the city, and on clear nights you can catch a glimpse of the harbour lights that you don’t get from many other venues downtown. The juxtaposition of soaring multi-level space with cosy fireplaces (yes, there are working coal fireplaces on the lower bars) is something patrons love. Even small touches – like a holiday tradition of decking the courtyard with fairy lights – contribute to a sense of community.
By preserving a vintage vibe while staying fun and accessible, The Grand stands out. Artists often praise its flexibility (the open layout adapts to acoustic bands or loud DJs alike) and audiences enjoy the casual yet spirited ambience. It’s the kind of place where people gather for big game finals on TV by day and later see local drag shows or quiz nights, reflecting the venue’s broad appeal. In short, The Grand’s special mix of historical architecture, multifloor party energy, and crowd-pleasing programming gives it a character all its own in Wellington’s cultural tapestry (thegrandwellington.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Getting the best experience: The Grand is at its busiest on Friday and Saturday nights, so plan accordingly. If you have a large group or want a reserved table on a weekend, it’s wise to book in advance (the earlier, the better). For popular bands or DJs, buy tickets early – big shows often sell out quickly. Otherwise, mid-week evenings and Sunday afternoons are usually quieter (and you may find lunch specials and easier seating then). If you visit with friends, note that the venue is spread-out: designate a meeting spot (ground floor by the bar is reliable) if you plan to explore multiple levels.
Accessibility: The Grand has an open wheelchair lift (the vintage cage elevator) but it’s narrow. The ground floor and Balcony level are accessible by that lift. The third-floor lounge and rooftop may not be easily reachable for mobility devices, so inquire ahead if needed. Restrooms on level one have an accessible stall. The venue can get smoky from the grill in summer evenings, so those with respiratory sensitivities might request a table up high (airflow improves on upper levels). Service dogs are welcome (Wellington law allows them in restaurants/bars).
Age and dress code: After 9pm the bar licence requires all patrons to be 18+, so bartenders will ID anyone who looks 25 or younger. (Children can be present for early dinner service, but won’t be allowed after 8pm unless it’s a family-friendly event.) The dress code is casual – T-shirts and jeans are fine. However, avoid overly dirty/ripped clothes if you plan to dine, and shoes are required on the dance floor. The crowd skews 18–35, but you'll also see older couples dining on quieter nights. The atmosphere is inclusive and non-pretentious, so just dress comfortably for a night out.
What to bring: Make sure to bring photo ID and enough cash or card for drinks and meals; note there’s no special membership or cover if you’re just eating/drinking. Large backpacks or outside alcohol are not allowed. Feel free to carry your phone or camera (for social photos) – many enjoy snapping shots by the antique elevator or the rooftop view. Leave bulky coats in your car or the cloakroom; during winter it can get toasty upstairs (the venue is fully heated on all levels). If you want to snap the best views, try the rooftop at sunset or the balcony for neon-lit street vistas. Finally, plan safe transport home: after-hours taxis line Willis Street, and late-night buses run close by. Rideshare pick-ups on Courtenay Place are also easy. Following these tips will help you focus on enjoying the food, drinks and fun that make The Grand a memorable stop on Courtenay Place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is 69–71 Courtenay Place and what is the venue called?
The address is 69–71 Courtenay Place, Te Aro, Wellington 6011. This multi-level pub/restaurant is known as The Grand Wellington (www.stonegrill.co.nz ). It occupies a heritage building in the entertainment precinct (near Reading Cinemas and the Embassy Theatre).
What types of events are held at The Grand?
The Grand hosts a range of nightlife events rather than fixed theater shows. Expect bar trivia nights, DJ and dance parties, live bands (hip-hop, rock, reggae etc.) and special-theme evenings. Many events are late-night club-style gigs (often 18+). There are no permanent concert seasons, but the venue often features Wellington acts and touring DJs in its lounges and on the rooftop (www.ticketfairy.com ).
How do I get tickets to shows at The Grand?
The Grand itself has no box office. Most nights are free to enter, but for special concerts or club nights, tickets are sold online and sometimes at the door. Check local ticket platforms (like Ticket Fairy or Eventfinda) and The Grand’s social media for sales. If a show requires a cover charge (usually NZ$10–20), it will be noted in advance. In general, casual bar entry requires no ticket (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Are cover charges or door sales common at The Grand?
Most evenings are free to enter. Cover charges (around $15–20) only apply for special events, like ticketed DJs or band performances (www.ticketfairy.com ). In those cases, attendees can usually buy tickets in advance or pay on the door if not sold out. Otherwise it operates as a free-entry bar/restaurant (though food and drink prices are standard for a central Wellington venue (www.ticketfairy.com )).
What is the seating like inside The Grand?
The Grand has no fixed seating chart. There are tables and benches on each floor (ground floor restaurant, first-floor balcony, second-floor lounge) and couch seating in parts. Seating is general admission; arrive early to grab a table if you have a big group. The ground floor has dining tables around the Stone Grill, and the Balcony Bar has booths facing Courtenay Place (www.ticketfairy.com ). Upper floors have mix-and-match seating. The rooftop is mostly standing or high tables (but has benches too). For a view, try a seat by the windows or up on the balcony (www.ticketfairy.com ).
What is the capacity of The Grand Wellington?
As a multi-floor venue, The Grand can accommodate several hundred people in total. Its official function info indicates the Balcony Bar alone is around 500-person capacity and the Garden Bar (outdoor courtyard) about 100 (www.ticketfairy.com ). Combined with the lower lounges and restaurant, it's common to host events up to ~500 guests across all levels. Note that on normal nights guests are spread out; maximum capacities are usually only reached during private functions or festivals (www.ticketfairy.com ).
How do I get to The Grand by public transport?
The venue is surrounded by bus routes. Buses that travel along Willis Street or Lambton Quay stop on Courtenay Place or nearby (for example, #1, #7, #2, Airport Flyer etc. stop in Te Aro). Wellington Railway Station (Bay Platforms) is about a 15-minute walk north. If coming directly from the airport, the Airport Flyer drops off on Courtenay Place itself or at the Railway Station. Rideshares and taxis can let you out at the corner of Courtenay Place and Blair Street. In short, buses are seconds away, and the station is nearby (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Is there parking at The Grand?
There is no private parking lot for The Grand. On-street parking is very limited (metered paid parking on Courtenay Place or Willis Street, usually max 1–2 hours). Nearby public car parks include Wilson Parking on Willis Street and the parking garage under the InterContinental Wellington – both are a short walk (4–5 minutes). Rates vary but plan $3–5 per hour. In the evening, street meters often stop charging after 6pm, but weekend restrictions may still apply. Many locals find public transit or taxi easier given central location.
What's the dress code and age limit?
The dress code is casual: jeans and tees are fine. It’s a pub atmosphere, so no formal attire is needed. Since The Grand is a late-night licensed venue, after around 9pm it becomes 18+. Staff will ID anyone who looks under 25 if entering late. (Before 7–8pm some families do dine there, but after 8pm it’s essentially adults-only.) If you’re going out with under-18 friends, the best bet is an early dinner reservation and leaving before the late 8pm cutoff.
Are cameras or filming allowed inside?
Casual photography is allowed (it’s a public venue), and many people snap pics of the unique interior and view. However, professional video/film equipment may require permission. Standard smartphones for photos or social media are fine. The venue does sometimes post promo videos/events on its own social media, but there’s no active policy against amateur photos. If you plan to livestream or record a performer, it’s courteous to ask staff or performers first.
Does The Grand have wheelchair access?
The main entrance and ground level are wheelchair accessible. There is a classic-style lift (the “cage elevator”) that can carry mobility devices to the first couple of floors, but it’s narrow and usually slow-moving. The ground floor, first (Balcony) and second (Lounge) levels can be accessed by that lift. The top rooftop levels may unfortunately not be wheelchair-friendly. An accessible restroom is available on the ground floor lounge. Visitors with specific accessibility needs might want to call ahead to ensure any accommodations.
Does The Grand have an outside or courtyard space?
Yes. The Grand includes a sheltered courtyard called the Garden Bar, located off the ground floor, which holds about 100 people (www.ticketfairy.com ). This semi-outdoor area is covered and heated. Additionally, the rooftop ABV lounge has an open-air terrace with high tables and lounge couches, offering views over the city (www.ticketfairy.com ). Both areas allow for fresh-air seating any time of year (the rooftop is weather-protected with heaters).
What is the stone grill?
The stone grill is a signature dining feature at The Grand. It’s a hot volcanic rock in the center of some tables, where guests can cook their own steaks or cuts of meat right at the table. This interactive experience hearkens back to the venue’s “former grandeur” theme (thegrandwellington.com ). You can order carefully-cut beef to cook on the grill to your preferred doneness. The staff will walk you through how it works when you sit at a Stone Grill table.
