About Basement
Basement was a small downtown nightclub and bar located at 21-23 Cambridge Terrace in Wellington’s Courtenay Place district. Housed in an early-1900s warehouse (a 1908 “Stripped Classical” style building) (www.wellingtoncityheritage.org.nz), the basement level was fitted out as a bar and dance club in the early 2000s. Official city records note a major fit-out in 2003 to create a “new basement floor bar and facilities” linked to the adjoining backpackers’ hostel (archivesonline.wcc.govt.nz). Unique for its time, this underground venue became known for very affordable drinks, an international backpacker crowd, and a lively late-night dance floor. The interior featured concrete floors, exposed brickwork and neon lighting, giving it a gritty, warehouse-club vibe. Basement hosted DJs, party nights and special events that catered to young travelers and local partygoers alike. After roughly two decades as Basement Bar, the venue closed and was relaunched in 2024 under the new name b.Space (www.sets.nz) – but the original Basement remains fondly remembered as a piece of Wellington’s nightlife history.
Events and Programming
Basement’s calendar was packed with nightlife events on most nights of the week. It was primarily an electronic dance music venue, featuring local and touring DJs spinning house, techno, drum & bass, and hip-hop. Recurring themes included indie dance parties, 80s/90s throwback nights, and genre-specific events (for example reggae or industrial nights). Basement also ran an unusual weekly “bar crawl” on Tuesday and Thursday evenings, where groups of attendees moved between nearby pubs (a rare promotion that gained a cult following). Other regular activities included weekly pool tournaments (for a small entry fee) and pub trivia or karaoke nights. The club occasionally hosted live bands or special showcase nights, often featuring up-and-coming Wellington artists. During peak season (Friday/Saturday) the space could fill to its ~120–150 capacity, while midweek events drew smaller, more intimate crowds.
Tickets and cover charges varied by event. In general, Basement was open-entry: most nights had no formal tickets or advance sales, and patrons simply paid any required cover at the door. Cover charges, when used, were modest (often $5–$10) and sometimes waived for early arrivals or special guests. On many nights entry was free or bundled with drinks specials, so no advance booking was needed. When Basement partnered with external promoters (for example, city festivals or big guest DJs), tickets could be sold online through local platforms up until the event. Otherwise, attendance was on a first-come, first-served basis up to capacity. Cheap drink deals (such as $2 shots or $10 jugs of beer) were common, reinforcing the club’s reputation for affordability.
Seating and Layout
Basement’s interior was configured as a “black box” club space – essentially one open floor with no fixed seating. Most patrons stood or danced on the main floor. Along the perimeter there were a few benches or stools, but these were minimal. The bar occupied one side of the room, with tall tables and a row of stools for those who wanted to sit and drink. A pool table was located in a corner (with a nominal fee to reserve it). The main performance area consisted of a raised DJ/band stage at one end, surrounded by the dance floor and a small standing-area “VIP” platform in front. Acoustic considerations meant the sound system was powerful and bass-heavy; walls and ceiling were often clad in light-absorbing materials to improve the sound. Sightlines were generally good: from anywhere on the dance floor you could see the DJs, so there were no “bad” seats per se. The only drawback was a relatively low ceiling height, so tall guests needed to mind their heads when jumping off the small stage. Because there were no fixed seats or table reservations, early arrivers tended to claim spots along the sides and center of the floor; the busiest nights had people packed closely on the dance floor.
Getting There and Parking
Basement was centrally located on Cambridge Terrace, at the corner of Willis Street, only a few minutes’ walk from Courtenay Place. Apart from walking, the venue is easily reached by public transport. Several bus lines run nearby – in particular, routes 1, 2, and 24 stop on Willis Street right by the entrance, as do the Airport Flyer (AX) and a few local evening services (moovitapp.com). (The Wellington Railway Station/Lambton Quay is also about a 10–12 minute walk away, served by Hutt Valley and Johnsonville line trains (moovitapp.com).) Additionally, the Wellington Cable Car’s top terminal on Willis Street is a couple of blocks away, and ferries dock at Queens Wharf a 10-minute walk north. Taxis and rideshares can drop passengers at the corner of Willis and Cambridge Terrace (there is a short driveway/drop-off area) without difficulty.
Street parking is limited but available on Cambridge Terrace and nearby streets. On-street metered parking abuts the venue (pay-by-plate machines), with rates set by Wellington City Council – currently up to $5 per hour on weekdays and $3 per hour on weekends (8am–8pm) (wellington.govt.nz). There are also several nearby parking buildings: for example, the multi-storey Civic Centre car park (off Wakefield Street) is a 3-minute walk down Cuba Street, and the smaller Te Aro carpark at 147 Willis Street is about 5 minutes on foot. Evening rates in these lots tend to be flat fee (often around $12 for all night), and some allow free parking after 6pm. Those with mobility permits should note that a designated accessible bay is located directly in front of Basement on Cambridge Terrace (adjacent to the entry). In short, the easiest way to get to Basement is on foot or by bus; limited car parking is available but may require a short walk from the formally signed lots.
Inside the Venue
Walking into Basement, visitors would have encountered a small check-in or doorman near the entrance. The space immediately felt dark and intimate, with low lighting (often neon or black lights) and pulsing colored spotlights. The concrete floor and painted brick walls gave it an industrial feel. The bar counter ran along one wall, staffed by a small team mixing drinks throughout the night. Beer taps included both local craft labels and familiar domestic brands, while the liquor selection offered everything from house spirits to specialty liqueurs. Drink prices were among the lowest in town – for example, pints were often a few dollars cheaper than at mainstream bars (a reflection of Basement’s budget focus). Snacks or bar food were minimal – usually just basic chips or nuts – so most people ate beforehand or after at nearby eateries. A key feature inside was a pool table with inexpensive $2 pool fees; this was a social hub early in the evening for patrons to chat and loosen up.
Table and coat check facilities were generally not provided (as is typical for smaller clubs). Visitors were welcome to sit their coats or bags under their tables or perches. Cellphone reception could sometimes be spotty down in the basement, so Wi-Fi access was limited. Bathrooms were located off the side hallway – usually one for male and one for female, both being small and well-used on busy nights. (Restrooms in Wellington clubs are all non-smoking by law, and Basement was no exception.) Security was casual but present: on late peak nights there might be one or two bar staff who also served as overseers of the dance floor, while at the doors ID was checked regularly after midnight. In sum, the atmosphere inside Basement was that of a cozy dive bar meets dance club: slightly rough around the edges, but friendly and energetic. You could come in jeans and a tee with no problem, and leave with the same. The only strict rule was the standard club policy – no weapons, no outside drinks, and everyone had to be properly dressed. Other than that, the vibe was inclusive: groups of friends, backpackers, and sometimes performers mingled freely on the dance floor until the music stopped in the early morning.
Nearby Amenities
Being in the heart of Wellington’s entertainment district, Basement was surrounded by plenty of options before and after a night out. For food and pre-show meals, the immediate block offered a few good choices: the high-end French bistro Hippopotamus (at 26 Cambridge Terrace) served gourmet European fare just upstairs, and a ground-floor fair might occasionally have snacks during the day. Within a couple of blocks on Wakefield and Willis Street are numerous casual eateries – from pizza and Asian fusion to gastropubs. For example, the Cambridge Hotel (right next door) has a cafe/bar that serves coffee and light bites in the afternoon. There is also a convenience store nearby for last-minute groceries or snacks.
As for nightlife: Cambridge Terrace itself hosts only Basement, but the surrounding Courtenay Place area is packed with bars and clubs. Within a 5–10 minute walk are popular spots like The Malthouse, Havana, and the Opera House Tavern, as well as live-music venues and cocktail lounges. Many Basement patrons would often head to one of these bars to start their night, and then make their way to Basement for late dancing. Conversely, after Basement closed in the early morning, taxis and shuttle buses regularly queued at the Courtenay Place corner, and the Johnsonville and Hutt Valley trains from Wellington Station (about 1.2 km away) made for a quick trip home. For those staying overnight, the base-level Cambridge Hotel and several backpacker hostels were adjacent, while more upscale hotels like the Novotel and Park Hotel were just a short walk north. In summary, Basement was enveloped by Wellington’s “Theatre District” scene – fine dining, casual restaurants and bars were all steps away, making it convenient to grab dinner or a drink before (or after) catching Basement’s offerings.
What Makes This Venue Special
Several factors set Basement apart in Wellington’s nightlife landscape. Architecturally, it occupied a rare underground space – literally in a basement, which gave it a secretive, underground-club feel. According to city heritage documents, the building contributes to the historic Courtenay Place area (the warehouse-style street-front has heritage value) (www.wellingtoncityheritage.org.nz). Many visitors noted that the venue felt like a “locals’ hole in the wall” – a place you wouldn’t know was inside a nice building above. Culturally, Basement mattered because it gave stage time to emerging DJs and non-mainstream music styles. For nearly 20 years it was one of the few Wellington clubs where admission was always cheap or free, so it welcomed travelers and students on a budget. This international mix turned Basement into a communal meeting point – backpackers would bond over $2 shots and pool games, exchanging stories on the dance floor. Long-running traditions (like those weekday bar crawls and trivia nights) fostered loyalty; people fondly remembered running themed pub crawls from Basement to other bars in Te Aro each week. In that way, Basement earned a quirky, beloved reputation.
Notable moments included annual Halloween parties, New Year’s celebrations, and benefit fundraisers for local causes. Over the years it hosted many Wellington niches: goth nights, indie-rock afterparties, and even a brief stint as a comedy open-mic venue on slow nights. While modest in size, Basement’s legacy was in the community it built. Even after it closed to make way for the new club b.Space in 2024 (www.sets.nz), many Wellingtonians and travelers remember it as an authentic “breeding ground” for the city’s underground nightlife and a characterful local landmark.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Basement’s main floor was on the basement level of a heritage building. This meant multiple steps from street level; there was no lift or ramp, so the space was not wheelchair accessible. There was a single wide doorway at street level into the foyer. Once inside, strobe lights and loud music mean visually or hearing-impaired guests should be prepared. However, the venue did have an all-gender bathroom and a small accessible restroom at ground level. Service animals were not typically screened out (being a bar, some managers allow them, but this was handled case-by-case).
Age and ID: The legal age for drinking in New Zealand is 18, and Basement enforced this strictly. On entering, be prepared to show valid photo ID (passport or NZ driver’s license). Usually, after midnight no one under 18 was allowed in at all (no minors). Support persons (e.g. with disabilities) were permitted free of charge if their companion purchased a ticket/cover. Many nights had a casual dress code – comfortable club wear is fine, but avoid muddy boots or overly baggy clothes. Normally there was no formal dress requirement (T-shirts and jeans were common), though very scruffy attire (e.g. overalls or work pants) could sometimes be turned away at staff discretion.
What to Bring: Bring something for ID and enough cash or card to cover drinks and any cover charge. There was an ATM a couple blocks away, but better to have cash on hand (plastic cards **may** not work at the ICU late or if the machines change). Since it could get very loud, consider earplugs if you are sensitive. Phones often had low signal; some patrons brought portable chargers. It’s also a good idea to bring a small handbag or pocket; backpackers might pack light anyway. We found that the bartenders charged a small fee for plastic cups (recyclable cups) at peak times, so having a cup “deposit” on card or extra coins helped.
What *Not* to Do: Don’t bring outside food or drinks – Basement did not allow any BYO items. Large bags or backpacks were discouraged (and sometimes checked) for security. Tip: Don’t keep your phone or valuables in a loose pocket; the dance floor could be crowded. Also, respect the staff – management had zero tolerance for aggressive behavior. If an event was “sold out” (rare, since most nights were general admission), staff might make an announcement if spaces opened up. Typically, once a show started if you were late, entry could be refused (“lockout policy”), so it’s best to arrive before the set time. Finally, remember this is a casual local spot: tumbleweeds and overdressed newcomers often stood out, so fit in by mingling and enjoying the cheap drink specials!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to buy a ticket in advance for events at Basement?
Basement was generally a walk-in club rather than a ticketed theatre. Most nights did not require advance tickets – you could simply show up at the door and pay any cover charge (if there was one). Free entry was common, especially for regular DJ nights. Only on special occasions (for example a large touring act or festival event) might tickets be sold online beforehand. In that case, local ticketing sites were announced in advance. Otherwise, assume there’s no box office and plan to pay at the door.
How much does it cost to get into Basement?
Entry prices at Basement were very modest. Many nights were free or included with your first drink. When there was a cover charge (such as for a special themed party), it was usually low – often in the range of NZ$5–10. Basement was known for being budget-friendly, so drinks and covers were kept cheaper than at most city clubs. It was best to check the night’s poster or social media for any announced cover, but generally you wouldn’t pay more than around $10 at most evenings.
Where can I buy drinks or food at Basement?
Basement had a small bar counter serving beer, wine, spirits and basic mixers. Everything from pints of local craft beer to $2 shots was available. The selection was good for a dive bar, including several taps and bottle options. As for food, Basement did not have a full kitchen. They usually offered light snacks (such as chili peanuts or chips) or weekly specials that could warm up. For a proper meal, nearby restaurants on Cambridge Terrace (for example Hippopotamus or the Cambridge Hotel kitchen) were handy before coming. Remember: no outside food or drinks were allowed inside.
What time should I arrive at Basement?
Basement’s peak hours were generally late (around midnight) through the early morning. Doors often opened by around 10–11pm on big nights. If you want to catch the best DJ sets or dance floor energy, getting there by 11pm–12am is a good idea, especially on weekends. However, those who prefer a quieter start could come earlier (from 9pm) to enjoy the bar and pool table when it’s emptier. Keep in mind cooking some events could start late. Since the party usually went until 3am or later, arriving anytime in the first half of the evening should be fine, but avoid rolling in right at closing time or you might find the door locked.
How do I get to Basement by public transport?
Basement was very accessible by Wellington’s public transit. Many downtown bus routes stop within a block of Cambridge Terrace. In particular, buses 1, 2, 24, 83 and the Airport Flyer (route AX) run along Willis or Courtney Place nearby (moovitapp.com). You can also take any train to Wellington Station (Lambton Quay) and walk roughly 10–12 minutes southeast along Willis Street to reach the venue. (It’s under two blocks from the station.) For a slightly different route, the Cable Car drops you on Willis Street above Courtenay Place – a short walk down Camera Terrace. Just step off at Willis/Cambridge Terrace and you’re there.
Is there parking available near Basement, and how much does it cost?
Street parking on Cambridge Terrace is available, although spaces are limited. These city-operated metered spots cost about NZ$5 per hour (Monday–Friday) or NZ$3 per hour (weekends) during daytime hours (wellington.govt.nz). After hours (evening and overnight) street parking is generally free. If you need a parking building, the Civic Centre car park (off Wakefield Street) or various Wilson/ParkOn lots within 5–7 minutes’ walk are nearby; rates are typically $12–$15 for the evening. Some lots have discounted evenings, so check signage. For those with a mobility badge, note that Basement’s entrance has one marked accessible bay on Cambridge Terrace itself. Overall, driving is possible but most patrons used buses or taxis for convenience.
Are there seats inside Basement or is it all standing room?
Basement’s layout was mostly open standing space. There were a few bar stools and wooden benches along the walls, and high tables near the bar where friends could perch or sit briefly. But the main area was designed for dancing and mingling rather than seated viewing. In practice, most people stood. If you arrive early, you might snag a stool by the bar or a bench against the wall, but once crowded it became standing-only. In short: it’s primarily a dance club floor.
Is Basement wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately not. As the name implies, Basement was below street level, and access involved stairs at the entrance. There was no elevator or ramp down to the club floor. For those using a wheelchair or with limited mobility, this venue would be very difficult to navigate. The management did offer to move guests to the front row or easier areas if needed, and there was one gender-neutral accessible toilet on the ground floor. But the club itself is set down stairs and not accessible by wheelchair.
What are Basement’s policies on bags, cameras, and dress code?
Standard bar/club rules applied. Manageable bags and purses were okay, but large backpacks or luggage were discouraged for space reasons. (Since it was adjacent to a hostel, some travelers tried to keep daypacks, but security would only allow if not blocking space.) Photography was not officially banned, but guests were expected to be respectful – professional cameras or flash photography usually drew attention from staff. Dress code was casual. Typical nightclub attire (jeans, t-shirts, sneakers) was fine; overly sloppy clothing might be questioned at the door. The key rule was no offensive or gang-related clothing. Essentially, as long as you looked presentable and positively blended into a club setting, you were welcome.
What accessibility features does Basement offer (ramps, toilets, etc.)?
Basement’s accessibility was quite limited. The venue had an accessible (wheelchair) toilet on the ground floor near the entrance. Inside the club, lighting was dim and there were stairs, so navigation could be hard for vision-impaired guests. Staff were willing to reserve a spot up front if someone needed assistance. There was no assistive listening audio or a hearing loop, so hearing-impaired guests might have trouble with announcements or faint music details. In sum: it was a very basic space with minimal special facilities. Visitors with needs were advised to contact staff in advance to arrange seating or assistance.
Is Basement Bar still open? If not, what’s at that address now?
As of 2024, the original “Basement Bar” venue at 21-23 Cambridge Terrace has been transformed. The space re-opened under a new name, b.Space, with new branding and promotions (www.sets.nz). So while the basement club still exists in that location, it is no longer “Basement Bar” per se. The new b.Space continues hosting late-night events, but with updated ownership and a slightly different vibe. Many locals simply refer to it as “that basement club (now b.Space) on Cambridge Terrace.” If you’re searching for Basement, you’ll find information under b.Space or the Cambridge Hotel complex.
Are food and drinks allowed inside Basement?
No outside food or drink was permitted. Basement sold its own beverages (beer, wine, mixers, and basic snacks). You were welcome to bring water or small items like gum, but bottles, alcohol, and takeaways from other places had to stay out. The bartenders only served alcohol and simple bar snacks. If you want a meal or non-alcoholic drink before dancing, you should eat off-site or at the venue’s few snack offerings. The bar did allow patrons to bring a single empty water bottle line for refill, but anything more substantial needed to be purchased inside.
Does Basement have a coat check or locker area?
No formal coat check was provided. Visitors often kept coats or bags by their stools or held them while dancing. During very crowded times, staff would sometimes offer temporary space behind the bar for belongings, but there was no staffed check service or key-tag system. If you arrived early, stowing your coat under a table was common practice. As a rule, bring only what you need or use a compact daypack; do not expect to be able to check your belongings securely.
Is smoking allowed at Basement?
No – indoor smoking has been illegal in New Zealand bars since 2004. At Basement, smoking was only permitted outside. Typically patrons stepped out to the front door (or a small outdoor area) to smoke. The venue did not provide a covered patio, so smokers braved the weather briefly. If you needed to smoke frequently, plan on stepping out into the street area or one of the nearby pub smoking zones.
Are there age restrictions or ID checks at Basement?
Yes. By New Zealand law, Basement was a licensed venue, so you had to be at least 18 to drink or enter after dark. The doorman routinely checked IDs if you looked under about 25 years old. If an event was listed as “18+,” no one younger was admitted at all. In practice, guests 16–17 could sometimes mingle in early hours if a parent accompanied them (for a short time), but as soon as alcohol was served or it got late, only 18+ remained. In short, bring a valid photo ID and be prepared to prove your age on entry or at the bar.
Is there a dress code at Basement?
No formal dress code was enforced. The vibe was casual nightclub style – jeans, t-shirts, hoodies, sneakers, dresses – all worked. Many patrons dressed in alternative or party fashion, but sloppiness was generally checked at the door. As noted, avoid construction/work gear, overalls, dirty boots or anything that could be seen as offensive. In practice, you could come as you are. If you want to blend in, smart casual (clean jeans, a nice shirt or top, comfortable shoes) is a safe bet.
Is Basement still a popular local spot?
Basement’s popularity had waned compared to its peak, but it still had a devoted following up through 2023. Locals remembered it as a “classic dive” and tourists often looked for it on their backpacking lists. Its budget prices and raw vibe kept it busy on weekends, and themed events drew crowds. However, by late 2023 the original Basement name and branding had largely disappeared in favor of the new b.Space branding. For up-to-date events, look at promotions under the building’s current name (b.Space). The spirit of Basement lives on in tradition, but the actual bar is now the revamped club.
What should I bring/not bring to Basement?
Bring only essentials: your ID, key, phone and some cash or card. Wear comfortable shoes and maybe a light sweater or jacket (it can be chilly at the entry). Don’t bring large bags, umbrellas (nobody to hold them), or valuables you can’t keep on you. No outside food or drinks, no weapons, and no illegal substances – you’ll be refused or asked to leave for those. If you need medication, keep it minimal and on you. Finally, bring a willingness to dance and meet people – Basement is more fun if you jump in and join the party!
Is Basement near any good restaurants or cafes?
Yes – its kitchenette was steps away from many eateries. The European-style restaurant Hippopotamus was directly above, offering fine dining (an easy choice if you want a fancy meal pre-show). On Wakefield and Willis Streets (just one block away) there are numerous cafes, pizzerias, sushi bars, and international fast-casual spots. For a quick bite, the ground-floor snack bar at the entrance to the adjoining Cambridge Hotel often had coffee and pastries. In Courtenay Place itself (a 5-min walk), you’ll find Thai, Korean, burgers, and more. In short, diners have no shortage of options within easy walking distance.
Are there any accommodations near Basement for out-of-town guests?
Absolutely. Basement was part of a block that included the Backpackers’ Base (also known as the Cambridge Hotel) right next door, so budget hostels were literally upstairs or around the corner. For a short stay, the hostel is ideal. A bit further away but still within 5–10 minutes’ walk are hotels like the Novotel Wellington, Park Hotel (best for bargain business stays), or the Rendezvous Hotel for a bit more comfort. YHA downtown and other backpacker dorms are also nearby. If you’re seeing a show and don’t want to travel late, staying in Te Aro or Mount Cook neighborhoods (both walkable) is very convenient.
