About BL3 Rooftop
BL3 is a newly opened bar and nightclub on Courtenay Place in Wellington’s entertainment precinct. Operated by Halton Hospitality Ltd, it’s licensed as a tavern with a covered outdoor roof area (wellington.govt.nz ). As Wellington’s nightlife “hub” – a 450m strip of nightclubs, bars and restaurants – Courtenay Place gives BL3 a central spot (mercure.accor.com ). The rooftop concept lets guests enjoy city views and sunsets while drinking and socialising. In practice BL3 feels like a modern multi-level club: there’s an indoor dance bar and an upper covered terrace. Its name ‘BL3’ seems to be a branded title rather than an abbreviation (some suggest “Bar Level 3” or similar), fitting the venue’s sleek, urban vibe. The venue’s interior and rooftop are decked out in industrial-chic style with plenty of city lights and overhead covers. This makes it notable as one of the few new rooftop bar/nightclub combos in the city, bringing fresh energy to a district famous for night owls and culture (mercure.accor.com ) (wellington.govt.nz ).
Events and Programming
BL3 hosts a variety of events, mostly focused on electronic music and club nights. Typical programming includes DJs spinning genres like UK Garage, jungle, drum & bass, and techno (ra.co ) (www.undertheradar.co.nz ). For example, event listings describe multi-zone nights with UKG and breaks upstairs, and D&B/jungle downstairs (ra.co ). The venue also throws themed parties and sunset rooftop sessions – such as a “Rüfus Du Sol Dedication Day Party” billed as “a proper sunset rooftop session” with melodic house and electronic tracks (www.undertheradar.co.nz ) (www.undertheradar.co.nz ). Special events range from Midwinter Christmas dinners with festive cocktails (snowballs, bucks fizz) to New Year’s Eve bashes. Shows are held frequently on weekends and during school holidays; some daytime twilight parties (like 5–9pm “sunset” events) take advantage of the rooftop view. Many events are R18 (18+) due to the late hours. Headline DJs have included local rising stars and regional talent; performances emphasize atmosphere – for instance, one techno night was billed as “Wellington’s newest night dedicated to dark, groovy and hypnotic beats” (www.undertheradar.co.nz ). Ticket prices vary by event but typically range from roughly NZ$15–$30. BL3’s programming is driven by local promoters like Full Time Senders and Focal Point Productions, so the style is often curated to fit each scene – from high-energy club atmospheres to relaxed sunset chill vibes (www.undertheradar.co.nz ) (www.undertheradar.co.nz ).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for BL3 events are usually sold online through local event sites and promoters (e.g. Undertheradar, Resident Advisor). Popular nights often put tickets on sale a few weeks in advance. Many flyers note online pre-sales with cheaper prices (e.g. an early ticket might be NZ$15) and higher door charges (e.g. NZ$20 at the door) (ra.co ). There isn’t a traditional box office on site that sells tickets; instead guests typically book via websites or apps, or simply pay at the door if not sold out. For big or special events it’s wise to reserve early, as some club nights can sell out. Key sales outlets include the official event pages and ticketing partners – but BL3 itself doesn’t currently have its own branded ticket shop. If in doubt, the best strategy is to “get in quick” once a gig is announced, and to watch the venue’s social media or music listings for presale alerts. In summary, tickets range from around $15–$30 NZD depending on event, and are bought online ahead or at the door; there is no separate physical ticket office at 8 Courtenay.
Seating and Layout
BL3’s interior layout appears to be split between multiple floors or zones. Event descriptions refer to “upstairs” and “downstairs” areas, suggesting a lower indoor dance floor/bar and an upper rooftop terrace (ra.co ). The rooftop itself is partially covered with a canopy, making it feel like an outdoor lounge protected from wind and rain. This upper deck likely features high benches and small cocktail tables along the edges for people-watching, while an indoor area below offers the main dance floor and DJ booth. Seating is mostly casual (few dedicated chairs), with a general-admission arrangement – expect standing room around the bar or on the terrace. Some elevated rail spots on the rooftop provide good views across Courtenay Place and the city – perfect in summer for sunsets (www.undertheradar.co.nz ). Acoustic-wise, BL3 is equipped for club sound: a powerful PA system likely pumps bass-heavy electronic music through interior and exterior zones. For visuals, dynamic lighting rigs (LEDs, lasers, strobes) set the mood. The “best seats” depend on your preference: the outdoor terrace is great for views and a more chilled vibe, while the indoor flat is ideal for dancing up close to the DJ. However, avoid standing too near the speakers if you want to preserve your hearing, and avoid far corners if you want easy access to exits or bars.
Getting There and Parking
BL3 is located at 8 Courtenay Place in Te Aro, Wellington (wellington.govt.nz ). Courtenay Place is a central street just off the waterfront, easily reached on foot from the city centre. The nearest train station is Wellington Railway Station (toward Lambton Quay), about a 10–15 minute walk, or one can hop off buses at nearby stops on the Lambton Quay/Pipitea route. Wellington’s bus network (Metlink) has many lines running past the cable car lane (upper Willis Street) or the central bus interchange, both within 5–10 min walk. For those driving, on-street parking on Courtenay Place itself is very limited. In fact, only four pay-and-display spaces are listed on Courtenay Place, free for 2 hours (en.parkopedia.co.nz ). So car drivers should plan for paid parking: common options include the Wilson’s/Reading car park on Wakefield Street (corner of Tory/Wakefield, about a block off Courtenay) or other central parking buildings on Tory or Victoria Streets. Rideshare drop-off works well – ask the driver to set you down at the corner of Courtenay Place at Blair Street or Brandon Street. Finally, if cycling, note that the city has bike lanes on Courtenay Place and nearby streets, but bike storage is limited; often people walk bikes to bike racks on Lambton Quay. In short: take a bus or train if possible, or book nearby parking; Courtenay Place street parking is scarce (en.parkopedia.co.nz ).
Inside the Venue
Upon entry, BL3 follows Wellington’s nightlife norms: secure entry with ID checks (18+ events require photo ID) and bag searches. The atmosphere inside varies by event – during club nights expect loud music, flashing lights and packed dancefloors downstairs, while the rooftop level offers a more relaxed lounge atmosphere at a lower volume (www.undertheradar.co.nz ). You’ll find at least one full bar serving beer, wine, spirits and cocktails; on special nights menu items may be themed (for example, Christmas cocktails or limited-edition brews). BL3 does not appear to focus on a kitchen menu, so heavy meals are done off-site; instead, drinks and bar snacks are the norm. There is a small back bar on the roof and likely another downstairs, so queues can form at peak times – it’s wise to get drinks early between sets. The club’s sound system is tuned for dance music (deep bass, clear mids/highs), and lighting includes digital displays and uplights on the rooftop. Restrooms are located on the ground floor (and possibly an extra on the terrace level) – note that queues for toilets are common in busy club events. There’s usually no coat check, so bring a shawl (even summer nights can be cool) and keep valuables secure. Free Wi-Fi inside BL3 is unlikely, but cell coverage (Vodafone/2Degrees/One NZ) is typically strong in Courtenay. BL3 occasionally offers merchandise (necklaces or T-shirts) at certain events, but standard shows rarely have a merch stall. Phones are permitted for casual photos/recording, but professional camera gear or video recording is usually prohibited. Overall, BL3 feels like a modern nightclub – dress code is smart-casual (no beachwear or sports singlets), security is present, and the vibe is relaxed and inclusive as long as you follow the rules and respect others.
Nearby Amenities
The Courtenay Place area brims with restaurants and bars to complement a night at BL3. Right on Courtenay Place you’ll find cuisine of every kind – pizza joints (Five Boroughs), Asian eateries (Ramen shop, curries), casual diners (Mexican, seafood), and trendy bars (Havana Bar, Ivy, Southern Cross, etc.). For a sit-down dinner before a show, options include nearby Mexican/Peruvian at Ortega Fish Shack, Japanese at Ms Ramen, Greek at The Hobbit, or contemporary NZ-Asian at Charley Noble. Many are open late. Right next door on Blair Street is Fortune Favours Beer Co., a good craft-beer spot for one drink pre-show. If you want lighter fare, the street has bakery sandwiches and kebab shops open till late. Hotels abound on/around Courtenay Place – the Trinity Hotel has its own rooftop bar (Skylight) just a few doors away, and chain hotels like Ibis, Rydges, James Cook and M Social are steps off Courtenay. These are convenient if you want to crash nearby. Late-night, note that Wellington also has 24-hour New World (Panorama) a block up, and some night buses on Courtenay itself after the bars close. One customary tip: arrive at least 1–2 hours before a late-evening show if you plan to dine first, as Courtenay traffic and parking can be busy. After BL3 events wrap (usually by 2am), the area has cabs and Uber readily available at Blair/Courtenay, or you can stagger to nearby hotels/bars if you’re staying around.
What Makes This Venue Special
BL3’s special claim is its combination of city views and club energy. A veteran Wellington guide notes that “Wellington’s nightlife *lives* on Courtenay Place” in a mix of “sin and sophistication,” and BL3 adds to that story (mercure.accor.com ). It’s the kind of place where, for New Year’s or a summer evening, you head to the rooftop and a golden sunset over Te Aro spreads across the city (www.undertheradar.co.nz ) (www.undertheradar.co.nz ). Architecturally, BL3 reuses an old Courtenay Place building and gives it a modern makeover – think a former warehouse or club space now dressed with neon and greenery under a glass canopy. In just months on the scene (since late 2024), it’s made its mark with busy launch parties and sold-out gigs. Culturally, BL3 is significant because it’s run by local operators (Halton Hospitality) and staffed by Wellington DJs and bartenders, injecting economic life back into theatreland after the 2020s slowdown. Musically, venues like BL3 help sustain the city’s underground scene – both international-electronic and homegrown sounds. For artists and audiences, BL3 offers a spacious dancefloor, high-tech lighting, and the youthful buzz of an inner-city dance party with fewer constraints than an open-air festival. The building’s third-floor bar also pays homage to Wellington’s adventurous vibe – it’s like catching a movie marquee’s neon glow or a festival inside a rooftop garden. All told, BL3 cards itself as a Sunset-To-Midnight spot: a place Wellingtonians love for iconic view-shot dances, DJ lineups, and that classic Courtenay Place electric night ambience.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: If you need wheelchair or mobility access, contact BL3 ahead of time. The venue likely has an elevator (being part of a modern building) and should have at least one accessible restroom. Wellington law requires step-free access to restaurants and bars, so BL3 should comply, but it’s wise to check for any ramps or entrances from Blair Street. Age/Dress: Be prepared for an over-18 rule on night shows. Dress code is casual-smart; club attire (neat pants, dresses, clean sneakers) is fine. No hats or gang-affiliated gear; keep shirts and shoes on. What to bring: Photo ID (NZ driver’s licence or passport) is essential. Carry minimal – small bags or phone handbags are best, as large backpacks may be checked. Because Courtenay Place can get windy on higher floors, bring a light jacket even on summer nights. Prohibited items: Illegal drugs or outside alcohol are banned by law. Glass bottles, self-defense sprays, or any weapon are not allowed (sec check). Photography is allowed with phones, but professional camera or video recording typically isn’t. Try to keep valuables secure – pickpocketing is uncommon but can happen in crowded club scenes. Arrival timing: On busy nights doors may open 1-2 hours before the main act, but peak entry time is usually after 10:30pm. Lines at the door can form, so join early if you want prime spots. Common pitfalls: Don’t rely on Courtenay Street parking (it’s very limited (en.parkopedia.co.nz )). Festival events can sell out quickly, so don’t delay buying tickets for headline DJs. Finally, check show times carefully – some all-day or afternoon parties exist, but most R18 shows start late (e.g. 9pm–2am). Following the venue’s social media (Instagram/Facebook) is a good way to get late updates (changes or cancellations). Overall, plan ahead for transport (and a taxi/Uber after 3am), wear something comfortable for dancing, and you’ll be all set to enjoy BL3’s rooftop thrills.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity and size of BL3?
The exact capacity of BL3 isn’t published, but as a medium-sized city club it likely holds on the order of 100–200 people total across its levels. It’s not a huge hall, but two open levels (indoor ground floor plus rooftop terrace) can fit a few hundred at concerts or DJ sets. The space feels substantial for Wellington’s scene, designed more intimate than arena-style.
Where can I buy tickets for a show at BL3?
Tickets are typically sold via event promoters rather than at a box office. Look for the event on ticket platforms (like Undertheradar or Resident Advisor) or the promoter’s website/social media. There is no dedicated BL3 ticket window; you either buy online in advance or pay at the door on the night (subject to availability). Door sales often incur a small surcharge.
What are the ticket prices and cover charges?
Ticket prices vary by event. Small local DJ nights might be as low as NZ$15–$20, while bigger acts or holiday parties can run $30 or more. Online presale tickets are usually cheaper; door charges are a few dollars higher (for example, one event listed $15 online vs $20 at the door) (ra.co ). Check the event listing – every show will state its specific pricing tiers.
What is the exact address, and how do I get there?
BL3 is at 8 Courtenay Place, Te Aro, Wellington . It’s on the southwest side of Courtenay Place, near the intersection with Blair Street. You can easily walk there from Te Papa or Lambton Quay. Buses serving the central city loop stop on Courtenay Place or Lambton Quay, and Wellington Railway Station is a 10-15 min walk away. Courtenay Place is a major nightlife street, so it's well-served by cabs and rideshares too.
Is there parking at BL3, and how much is it?
Parking on Courtenay Place itself is very limited – only a few (4) street spots free for 2-hour parking (en.parkopedia.co.nz ). For anything longer, nearby paid parking is recommended. Options include the Wilson’s/Reading covered car park across Brandon Street or on Wakefield Street (about a block off Courtenay), and other city car parks on Tory or Victoria Streets. Prices in these lots vary (usually a few dollars per hour). Rideshare drop-off or public transport is often more convenient.
Is BL3 an indoor or outdoor venue?
BL3 has both indoor and outdoor elements. The main dance floor and bar are inside on the lower level, which is fully enclosed. Above, there’s a roof terrace that’s partially open-air (with a retractable or fixed canopy). So you can step outside on the rooftop deck even during events, but still be under cover. In Wellington weather that means you get the sky view without full exposure to rain or wind.
What are the age restrictions and dress code?
Most events at BL3 are for ages 18+ (no minors) due to the late-night club license. Always carry photo ID (driver’s licence or passport). As for attire, there’s no formal dress code, but smart-casual is expected. Club-goers typically wear nice jeans, dresses or clean sneakers. Avoid beachwear or work boots. You’ll fit in wearing something you’d wear to any good evening bar in Wellington.
Does BL3 have a coat check or storage?
There’s no official coat check service mentioned for BL3. Most patrons simply keep their coats on their person or hang them on their seat if available. It’s wise to travel light. Wellington nights can be cool, so enjoy your jacket – staff won’t hold items. As always, keep an eye on your belongings in a busy club environment.
Are food and drinks available at BL3?
Yes – BL3 is a bar, so it has a full drinks menu. You can buy beers (including local craft beers), ciders, wines, spirits and cocktails. They often feature special themed drinks on holiday (like Christmas cocktails). However, BL3 does not have a full restaurant kitchen. Typically you would eat before coming or grab a late-night snack elsewhere. The vendors in Courtenay Place (pizza, kebabs, late-night eats) are close by for food before or after your visit.
Is BL3 wheelchair accessible?
BL3 should have wheelchair access, as it’s a modern venue with an elevator (it’s part of a refurbished multi-story building). The city’s accessibility laws would require at least ramp or lift access to the main areas. The ground-floor entrance is level with the sidewalk. For specifics (like accessible restroom availability), it’s best to call ahead. Wellington venues often reserve a space for wheelchair users by the bar or in the terrace area.
Can I bring my own camera or recording equipment?
Casual cameras and smartphones are generally allowed for personal photos, but professional photography or video recording is usually not permitted at BL3 events. If you plan to shoot videos, be aware that many club shows have strict no-recording policies due to artist and copyright concerns. It’s safest to enjoy the show with your own eyes – you’ll get quick pics on your phone, but bulky cameras or camcorders would likely be turned away at entry.
Is there an age restriction or ID policy at BL3?
Yes. BL3 is licensed as an 18+ venue (you must be at least 18 to enter for most events). All patrons will be carded on entry – bring a valid photo ID (NZ driver’s licence, passport or KiwiAccess card). The license posted at the venue allows service until 2AM every day, but some promoters stick to later night hours. If in doubt, check the event’s fine print; it will always mention any age requirements.
Are BL3’s events indoor only, or do they use the rooftop too?
BL3’s events span both its indoor club space and the rooftop terrace. Most dance nights focus on the indoor area, but many events incorporate the covered rooftop for pre- and post-party socialising. For example, early-evening “sunset” parties are held on the upper deck, while later nightlife is inside. If you want fresh air or a view, step out onto the roof – it’s an integral part of the venue’s vibe.
Does BL3 open every day of the week?
By license, BL3 is allowed to operate 7 days a week from 8am to 2am (wellington.govt.nz ). In practice, the club nights are usually held on Friday and Saturday evenings, plus special occasions or holidays. The rooftop can open earlier in the day or afternoon for events (like a Sunday afternoon session), but typical club events start around 9pm and go late. It’s not a daytime hangout except for special bookings.
Why is the venue called BL3?
The origin of the name “BL3” hasn’t been officially explained by the operators. Some speculate it might refer to a basement/level number or an abbreviation, but it appears to be a stylised brand name chosen to stand out. It’s best thought of as just a catchy venue name, rather than a directional sign. When you arrive at 8 Courtenay Place, look for the neon “BL3” sign on the building to know you’re in the right spot.
