About Bodega
Bodega (101 Ghuznee St, Te Aro) is Wellington’s iconic two-level bar and live music venue . Known as the city’s original alehouse, it offered a wide selection of hand-drawn craft beers and imported ales . The venue started in 1991 as “La Bodega” café on Willis Street , then moved up to Ghuznee Street in the early 2000s . Over time it grew – by 2011 it added an upstairs lounge called the “Burgundy Room” . For over 25 years Bodega anchored Wellington’s alt-rock scene, proudly touted (at 20 years) as “NZ’s oldest live music venue” . The bar’s character was repeatedly praised – one guide called it “the finest seedy bar in Wellington… with live music and [beer]” . In practice it felt like a cozy pub, where a plumber, a musician, church clergy and students might all be found solving the problems of the world over a pint . The atmosphere was famously friendly and laid-back , with every night feeling like an intimate party in someone’s living room . Although Bodega’s doors closed permanently in late 2016 , its rich history as a hub of Wellington music culture remains well-remembered.
Events and Programming
Bodega’s calendar was packed with live music most nights of the week. Local and national bands played “several nights a week” at Bodega , spanning genres from jazz and punk to indie rock and electronica. Every show was a tight, high-energy affair: the stage was small and low, so even a crowd of 50 felt up-close and communal . The programming mixed established acts with emerging ones. Many legendary Kiwi artists passed through Bodega – for example Will Oldham (aka Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy), The Dirty Three, and even The White Stripes in their pre-fame days all played there . Flying Nun bands like The 3Ds, Snapper and King Loser treated it as a second home . Local club nights covered everything from reggae and funk DJs to punk rock parties. Booking was informal: bands could chat to manager Murray during the week and pencil in a date. Because setup was simple, shows often had minimal soundchecks. One writer recalled “all that was required was to set up your gear … play a minute or two, ask anyone handy if it sounded okay and you were good to go” , fueling the friendly “living room” vibe. Bodega even spawned its own Beat Bodega record label for local artists in the 1990s . In later years the venue hosted themed nights and special events – from tribute shows and DJ parties to final farewell gigs. (In fact, for its last night in 2016 owner Hepple booked a lineup of local bands with free entry to send it off in true community style .) Ticket prices varied by event – smaller local shows might cost one beer’s worth (under ~$10), while touring “headline” acts could be $20–$30. Overall, Bodega’s programming was eclectic and relentless: if it was live music (or a DJ) happening in Wellington, Bodega likely booked it.
Tickets and Booking
Bodega did not operate its own box office; tickets were usually sold via promoters or ticket outlets. Visitors would typically find events and buy tix online or in advance through local sites (e.g. UnderTheRadar.nz) or at a local record store. For example, a listing for a 2015 show at Bodega notes “Doors open 8:00pm, Entry R18” – indicating guests needed to buy a ticket or pay cover to enter. If tickets remained, the venue often sold them at the door (cash or EFTPOS). Cover charges depended on the act – small rock or jazz gigs might be free or $10, while bigger touring bands were more. Because Bodega was small, popular shows sometimes sold out, so a common tip was to book early or arrive early to buy a door ticket. In general, plan to get tickets as soon as a date is announced, or grab door tickets promptly after doors opened. There were usually no seating plans or price tiers: most tickets were general admission. 18+ ID was required for evening gigs (it was strictly R18, as shown by the example listing above). For fans traveling from out of town, many promoters also handled limited presales, but it was safest to assume you’d need to secure entry at the bar around showtime.
Seating and Layout
Bodega’s interior was compact and essentially standing-room (though a few stools and tables lined one side). The main performance area was on the ground floor with a small stage. The bar itself ran along one side of the room in a horseshoe shape, leaving a dance-floor-style open area in front of the stage. In 2011 the upstairs “Burgundy Room” was added as a separate lounge space ; it had a few couches and tables for quieter seating, but functioned mainly as another viewing gallery during shows. In practice, there were no reserved or VIP seats – everyone either stood or sat on the bench seats/low stools. The ceiling was low and the stage was barely raised above floor level, so the sightlines were best for those standing front and centre. Audience members right up against the stage could reach out and nearly touch band gear, creating an intimate vibe . Those who prefer to sit often watched from the bar stools or the few seats in the Burgundy Room upstairs. Acoustically, the simplicity of the setup worked in Bodega’s favor: sound engineers simply ran vocals through a basic PA and instruments direct from amps on stage . This rudimentary system meant shows were rarely painfully loud, which some regulars preferred . Overall, with roughly 100–180 people capacity , no “bad” seats developed – you could hear and see well from anywhere near the front. (Squeezing ever-more people in could block the view, so many fans aimed to arrive early to stake out a clearing by the stage.)
Getting There and Parking
Bodega sits at 101 Ghuznee Street in the Te Aro district, just a block south of the main Courtenay Place entertainment strip and a block west of Cuba Street . It’s easy to find on foot from central Wellington: for example, it’s a 10–15 minute walk south from Lambton Quay/Wellington Railway Station or from the waterfront. Many downtown buses stop nearby – notably the frequent Route 21 city bus has stops at Ghuznee/Cuba and Ghuznee/Willis (just around the corner) . In practice, visitors often catch a bus to Courtenay Place or Cuba, then stroll one block back. If driving, note that Ghuznee’s street parking is metered (2P or 4P in the CBD) and can fill up. For longer stays, nearby paid lots run by Wilson Parking are convenient. For example, Wilson operates a car park at 34 Ghuznee Street with casual rates from around $5 per hour . Other public car parks are on adjacent streets too. (As a rule of thumb, budget at least $5–$10 for an evening if you park downtown.) Rideshare and taxis can drop off at the corner of Ghuznee/Cuba or Willis/Ghuznee. Biking is also an option: there are bike racks on nearby streets and the Kennedy Set bike path passes a few blocks away. After a show, late-night transit is available: Wellington’s After-Midnight buses run from the Courtenay Place area in the early morning hours . In summary, the venue’s central location means you can easily walk, take bus/taxi to nearby stops, or use pay parking. It’s generally recommended to allow extra time on busy show nights to find a spot, or simply arrive by public transit to avoid parking hassles.
Inside the Venue
Walking into Bodega, expect an old-school pub ambience more than a modern nightclub. The décor was eclectic: low ceilings and dim lighting, with walls usually plastered in band posters, gig fliers and neon beer signs. The long wooden bar and a few scattered high tables ran along one wall. Drinks (a wide assortment of craft beers on tap, ciders, wines and basic spirits) were ordered at the bar; bartenders poured pints into thick glasses (or plastic cups during shows). Patrons described Bodega as having a “fantastic atmosphere” with friendly, down-to-earth staff . In fact, longtime regulars became fixtures: one former server recalled pouring pints for “plumbers and builders, and musicians and bank managers, and clergy” alike – everyone mixing over a beer without pretense . There was no coat check, so many guests draped jackets over the bar stools or stacked their belongings to one side. The venue did not emphasize food service during concerts; at best there might have been simple bar snacks or a kitchen open in a back corner. (Later in its life Bodega also ran a small bistro upstairs, but the main area focused on drinks and music.) Bathrooms were basic and located off the main room. No fancy amenities here – the charm came from the authenticity. Phones and small cameras were fine, but you wouldn’t see a line of laptops. Cellular reception was usually okay given the central city location. Ultimately, the inside was about the crowd and the tunes: people often lingered after gigs, standing at the bar chatting like they owned the place, soaking in the convivial spirit that had been built by decades of live music .
Nearby Amenities
Bodega is in a lively part of the city, so dining and drinking options are plentiful within a block or two. On Cuba Street just east of Bodega, you’ll find a host of eateries (Thai curry, falafel shops, cafes, and casual pubs). Courtney Place one block north has Italian restaurants, fish-&-chips shops and Kiwi gastropubs (Rydges Hotel’s restaurant is there, for example). For pre-show meals, many grab dinner around 5–7pm in any of these spots. If you’re looking for a quick bite or coffee, cafes on Cuba and Wakefield (like the nearby Flight Coffee) are open by mid-afternoon. Late-night bars abound: The nearest pub is right next door, and dozens of bars line Cuba and Courtney, so you can continue the night easily. As for hotels, central Wellington lodgings are a short walk away: hotels like Rydges, Ibis and Mercure on Courtney/Wakefield streets, or the Rendezvous on Taranaki, are all within five minutes of Ghuznee. (For example, the Mercure is literally across Cuba, the Ibis at Lemington St/Cuba is two blocks.) In summary, Bodega’s visitors never run out of options: everything from casual to upscale dining is on foot, and after a show it’s simple to head to a nearby bar or grab a cab/late-night bus home. The city’s key public transport hubs (like Wellington Station or Lambton Quay) are well-served by late-night “N” buses from Courtenay Place , so getting back after midnight is straightforward.
What Makes This Venue Special
Bodega stood out because of its storied personality and community role. It was not just a bar, but “a hub for a large cross section of the local community” . Founder Fraser McInnes famously likened pubs to a “pākehā marae” – a gathering place – and indeed he built Bodega as one, mixing locals, students and bohemians together . Its unpretentious “live music pub” vibe endeared it to both artists and audiences. Musicians loved how easy it was to play there (no tedious soundcheck needed and the crowd right in front) , and audiences loved feeling like part of the show. The result was countless legendary moments. For example, moving into the Ghuznee location was itself a cultural event – staff and loyal fans physically carried the entire horseshoe bar around the corner, complete with bagpipes and a jazz band . Immortal gigs took place in that tight space: Chris Knox clambered down into the crowd, Dirty Three’s Warren Ellis entertained fans with stories mid-set, and New Zealand indie stars like The 3Ds hailed it as their “home” club . The venue even fostered a record label (Beats Bodega) and carried on traditions – for many Wellingtonians, going to a Bodega gig was a rite of passage for emerging musicians and students alike. In short, its historic role (more than two decades of continuous music!), genuine pomposity-free atmosphere (a word like “seedy” became a compliment), and those community-building events made Bodega beloved. Both locally and nationally it was spoken of as a classic watering hole where the city’s music culture came to life . These traits – authenticity, history, and an all-inclusive vibe – are what made Bodega truly special to artists and audiences.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Bodega’s old building has stairs and narrow entries; it was not highly wheelchair-friendly. (The main venue is up a few steps and upstairs seating requires a staircase.) Visitors with mobility needs may want to call ahead or consider alternate accessible venues. Age & ID: Almost all public events at Bodega were 18+ (often R18). Be sure to bring valid photo ID (passport or driver’s licence). Without ID you will not be admitted for evening shows. What to Bring: Pack light and only bring essentials: BBFS class. Earplugs can be handy if you’re sensitive to sound, though audio was modest. A small wallet for ID and payment is enough (most payments were on card). Don’t bring large bags – staff may restrict them for security. Dress Code: Casual is fine (jeans, t-shirts, sneakers or boots). There was no formal dress code. Just keep it neat: you’ll be comfortable among locals in casual wear. Prohibited: No glass containers brought in, no vaping/smoking indoors (smoking was only allowed outside after the 2010 ban). Cameras: phone pics are okay for memories, but professional photography or video recording of acts was generally not permitted. Timing: Doors often opened by 7–8pm on gig nights. Arrive early for popular shows to avoid queues, as the small venue filled up fast. (A common mistake is showing up just before the announced start and finding the room jammed.) Plan to stay late: Bodega was known to run late into the night, often with bands or DJs until 1–2am. Food & Drink: Expect standard bar fare (beers, cider, wine, and simple mixed drinks). Drink prices were typical for Wellington: not cheap student prices, but also not overinflated (e.g. a craft beer around $10–12). No outside food or drinks allowed. Hydrate earlier if you’re attending an all-night event. Connections: Free Wi-Fi and charging points were generally not provided; you may want to charge devices in advance. The venue was famous for conversation rather than screens! Crowd: The crowd could be very diverse – from hipsters to bikers to office workers. Everyone is expected to behave respectfully; rough or rude behavior might get you thrown out by security. Queue Etiquette: If a line forms outside (common on big nights), respect personal space and don’t cut in line – it’s very frowned upon. Often people chat in line like old mates. Listen Up: No special acoustics techniques needed – Bodega is an intimate space with raw walls. The sound system prioritize clarity, not loudness , so you could often hear the music well even near the back. After the Show: The neighborhood is safe and lively. Feel free to continue the evening at nearby bars. Late-night buses (“After Midnight” routes) pick up from Courtenay Place, one block north ; or grab a taxi/Uber just outside on Ghuznee. It’s wise to pre-arrange a ride if you’ll be out very late. Check Up: Because Bodega closed in 2016, verify any current plans – as of now the venue is not operating. If a reunion or new owners take over the Bodega name, look for local news or official announcements. Always double-check event dates and age restrictions. Insider Tip: On quieter nights (or before gigs), Bodega’s atmosphere was very relaxed – sometimes you could chat with musicians at the bar. Strike up a conversation: old-timers love to reminisce about shows past. Enjoy the authentic “old Wellington” pub vibe while it lasts in your memory!
Is Bodega still open as a venue?
No, Bar Bodega closed permanently in December 2016 . It is not currently operating, and there are no live events scheduled at the Ghuznee Street location.
What is the capacity of Bodega?
Bodega was a small venue. Its ground floor held roughly 100–180 people at a pinch . For comfort, about 100–120 was typical. There were no fixed seats – mostly standing room around the stage and bar.
Where could I buy tickets for a Bodega show?
When it was running, Bodega didn’t have a box office. Tickets were sold through promoters or event websites in advance, or at the door on show night if available. Fans often bought general-admission tickets online or simply queued at the bar when doors opened. (Always bring ID for an R18 show.)
What is the seating layout inside Bodega?
Bodega’s main area was mostly general admission standing space. There were a handful of bar stools and tiny tables along the side, but no reserved seats. The stage was at one end of the room. In 2011, an upstairs “Burgundy Room” was opened , which provided a small lounge and extra vantage point. Best viewing spots were generally near the front of the stage or at the edges of the room.
How do I get to Bodega by public transport?
Bodega is at 101 Ghuznee Street (Te Aro) , just off Courtenay Place. Multiple bus routes serve the area. For example, Metlink’s Route 21 stops at Ghuznee/Cuba and Ghuznee/Willis , which is a short walk to the venue. In general, taking any bus to Cuba Street or Courtenay Place and walking one block south will get you there. Taxis and rideshares can drop off at Ghuznee/Guyton or Willis/Ghuznee corner.
Is there parking available near Bodega?
Street parking on Ghuznee and nearby side streets is metered (usually 2–4 hour zones). For longer events, paid parking buildings are nearby. For instance, Wilson Parking’s Ghuznee Street car park (34 Ghuznee) charges casual rates from about $5/hour . Other lots are on adjacent blocks. Plan to pay a few dollars per hour, or consider public transport to avoid parking hassles.
Does Bodega have wheelchair access?
Bodega was in an older building and had some stairs; it was not fully wheelchair-accessible. Entrance and restroom areas involved steps, and there was no elevator to the upper floor. If you require accessibility features, it was best to contact the venue in advance (when it was open) or use another accessible venue.
What is the age restriction at Bodega?
Bodega events were typically strictly 18+ or even R18. Patrons needed valid photo ID to enter any night-time show . (Before 6pm on non-concert hours it was just a bar, but by showtime it was always 18+.)
What should I wear to Bodega?
Dress is casual in an authentic pub style. You’ll fit right in with jeans, t-shirt or a casual shirt. Some went for grunge/punk looks when it was open. There was no formal dress code. Just wear what you’d feel comfortable in at a friendly local bar. (Avoid true nightclub styles – Bodega was more of a no-frills pub atmosphere.)
Can I take photos or video at Bodega shows?
For personal use, most patrons carried small cameras or phones. Casual photography (no flash) was usually okay. However, professional cameras or recording gear typically required permission and were often not allowed. In short: phone pics are fine; full video filming or big cameras were discouraged unless pre-arranged.
Is there a coat check or lockers at Bodega?
No formal coat check was provided. Patrons usually kept coats and bags with them at the bar or by the walls/table. If you prefer, arrive light or come early to find a spot to stow your jacket. Keep an eye on belongings, as everything stays at your own seat or standing area.
Are there food options inside Bodega?
Bodega was primarily a bar, so full meals were not its focus. It may have offered light snacks or hosted a small bistro upstairs during certain periods, but generally the venue itself did not serve dinner plates during concerts. Plan to eat at a nearby restaurant before heading to a late show, or grab something from the street-side cafes beforehand.
How much should I budget for drinks at Bodega?
Drink prices at Bodega were in line with other central pubs. Expect a craft beer or cider to be roughly NZ$10–12, a house wine ~$8–10, and spirits/carafes similarly average-priced. It's a good idea to bring cash or card; tipping is not customary in NZ, but bills are often rounded up.
What are common mistakes to avoid?
Common pitfalls: Arriving too late on a sold-out night (you may miss the show or stand at the back); forgetting ID for an R18 event; bringing a big backpack (space was tight); or expecting fancy lighting/tech (Bodega was minimal, focused on the music and beer). Also, some visitors underestimate how late NZ pubs stay open—many nights ended well past midnight, so plan your trip home accordingly.
