Events at Foxglove Bar & Kitchen, Wellington

About Foxglove Bar & Kitchen

Foxglove Bar & Kitchen is a multi-level bar, restaurant, and event venue set on Wellington’s iconic waterfront. Housed in a beautiful heritage building at 33 Queens Wharf, it offers sweeping harbor views and a distinctive vintage-inspired atmosphere. The venue features two bars, an in-house steak restaurant, and expansive outdoor decks, making it a popular spot for everything from casual lunches to lively nights out. With a capacity of up to around 350 guests for large events (using all its spaces), Foxglove comfortably accommodates intimate gatherings and bustling crowds alike.

What makes Foxglove truly unique is its blend of history and character. The building itself dates back to the late 1800s – originally a marine warehouse – and was famously transported by barge from Greta Point to its current waterfront location. Painstakingly restored and renovated, it retains its historic charm with wooden beams and classic architectural details, now paired with 1930s-40s glamour in the décor. Plush furnishings, art deco touches, and a touch of West Hollywood lounge vibe give Foxglove a timeless elegance. Locals cherish the venue for preserving a piece of Wellington’s maritime heritage while infusing it with new life as a vibrant social hub. Whether you’re a Wellingtonian or a visitor, Foxglove stands out as a must-visit CBD hotspot known for its stylish ambiance and warm Kiwi hospitality.

Events and Programming

Foxglove’s programming is as dynamic as its space. By day, it functions as a laid-back restaurant and bar – ideal for brunches, business lunches, or afternoon cocktails by the water. By night, especially on weekends, Foxglove transforms into a lively venue often featuring DJs and entertainment. It’s not a traditional concert hall, but you’ll frequently find curated nightlife events here: from upbeat DJ nights spinning house, disco, or drum and bass, to themed parties and dance events. Many Friday and Saturday nights have a resident DJ or a well-chosen playlist to set the mood for the crowd of after-work professionals and weekend revelers.

In recent years (2020–2025), Foxglove has hosted a number of notable events that underline its reputation in Wellington’s nightlife. Internationally renowned drum-and-bass acts like Delta Heavy have performed DJ sets in the upstairs ballroom, and local electronic music icons such as Dick Johnson have headlined specialty events (for example, the “Quarters” 25+ nightlife revival party in 2025). The venue is also a fixture for holiday celebrations – you can expect lively New Year’s Eve parties with DJs and dancing, as well as special themed nights for Halloween or city-wide festivals. Live bands are not a nightly feature, but occasionally during festivals or private functions you may catch acoustic sets or jazz ensembles making use of the intimate space. Many events are one-off or part of series curated by promoters, so the schedule changes month to month. The common thread is an emphasis on a fun, social atmosphere rather than big concert productions – Foxglove is where people go to dance, mingle, and enjoy music in a stylish setting. Ticketed club nights might occur a few times each quarter, while on regular weekends the entry is free and the vibe is more casual (though still often energetic). This balance of everyday buzz and special happenings keeps Foxglove exciting and unpredictable – you might walk in on a quiet weekday for a drink, or on a Friday night find the place pulsing with beats and a packed dance floor upstairs.

Tickets and Booking

General entry to Foxglove is free – you don’t need a ticket to enjoy the bar or restaurant on normal days. You can simply walk in, grab a table or spot at the bar, and enjoy the offerings. However, for special events and club nights, tickets are typically required or recommended. These events are usually advertised in advance via local event listings or social media, and tickets are sold online through event ticketing platforms or at the venue (if not sold out). Prices depend on the event: smaller DJ nights might range from NZ$10–$20 for early-bird tickets, whereas bigger name acts or New Year’s parties could be priced higher (e.g., $30–$50 for advanced tickets or packages). It’s wise to book early for popular nights – many have tiered pricing (cheaper early, then a bit more at the door). If you miss out online, there’s sometimes a limited number of door sales on the night, but this isn’t guaranteed once capacity is reached.

For dining reservations and group bookings, Foxglove offers an easy booking process. You can contact the venue directly by phone or via their website to reserve a table, which is highly recommended for weekend dinners or any larger group to ensure you get a spot with a view. The venue often handles private function bookings as well – if you’re planning a corporate event, birthday party, or even a wedding, their dedicated events team can assist (they manage bookings for spaces like the Ballroom or the Foxtail lounge). Deposits or minimum spend may apply for private hires, but all of that is arranged through Foxglove’s management rather than a third-party ticket agency. One tip: if you’re aiming to attend a special event at Foxglove and also want to have dinner there first, book your dinner slot a bit earlier. That way, you can enjoy a meal downstairs or at their in-house steak restaurant (WOLF by Foxglove) and then transition upstairs to the event when doors open, without having to re-queue outside. Overall, whether it’s a ticketed late-night party or just a casual evening out, planning ahead (ticket purchase or table booking) ensures your Foxglove experience goes smoothly.

Seating and Layout

Foxglove’s layout is spread across multiple levels and distinct spaces, each with its own vibe. On the ground floor, you’ll find the main bar and dining area – a spacious zone with a mix of high-top bar tables, regular dining tables, and cozy couches by the windows. This floor opens out to a generous waterfront deck with outdoor seating, where guests can sit under umbrellas and enjoy ocean air. The ground floor interior has a gastropub feel with vintage flair: think hardwood floors, a long gleaming bar counter, and an eclectic mix of chairs and banquettes. For a casual meal or after-work drinks, any table by the waterfront-facing windows is a prime spot, providing lovely views and natural light. Outdoors, the deck seating is superb on fine days or warm evenings – you’ll literally be overlooking the harbor. Keep in mind those patio seats get snapped up quickly on sunny days. If you prefer a quieter corner, there are nooks towards the back or side of the ground floor where the music is a bit softer and you’re away from the main thoroughfare of people.

Upstairs is where Foxglove’s layout gets really interesting. The first floor includes a large elegant space known as The Ballroom, and adjacent to it, the hidden gem called Foxtail Bar. The Ballroom is a flexible function room – it can be set with tables for a banquet or cleared as an open hall for standing events. During public events or club nights, the Ballroom effectively becomes the dance floor and main performance area. It’s an airy room with high ceilings, chandeliers, and vintage mirrors, evoking a 1940s dance hall atmosphere. Standing capacity here is about 250 on its own, so there’s plenty of room to dance. Several small tables and bar stools might line the edges during less crowded evenings, but for a packed event, expect it to be mostly open space with maybe some perimeter seating. If you’re attending a gig or DJ night in the Ballroom, arriving early can help you claim a spot with good sightlines – perhaps near the front if you want to be close to the DJ/band area, or on the raised edge by the balcony if you prefer a little distance and a view over the crowd. Acoustically, the room has decent sound; the venue sets up speakers and lighting as needed. Those sensitive to loud music might want to stay towards the back, where it’s slightly quieter but still part of the energy.

Beside the Ballroom (accessible through an old oak wardrobe – yes, an actual wardrobe that doubles as a secret door) lies the Foxtail Cocktail Bar. This intimate lounge is styled as a plush speakeasy. Inside Foxtail you’ll find velvet sofas, low lighting, a marble-topped bar and even private balconies that overlook the harbor. Seating here is luxurious but limited – it fits roughly 30 seated guests, with room for 80 or so standing when packed. Foxtail often operates as a semi-private area: on regular nights, it might be open as a quieter cocktail lounge away from the crowd, while during big events it can serve as a VIP area or a retreat for guests who want a more exclusive experience. If you have a VIP ticket or special access during an event, you might have entry to Foxtail, which means you can enjoy the performance next door in Ballroom, then slip into Foxtail for a breather, a top-shelf whisky, or a chat where the music is softer. Even if you’re just dining or drinking at Foxglove generally, it’s worth venturing upstairs to find this secret bar – it’s one of Wellington’s worst-kept secrets and a fun novelty for first-timers. Finally, another space to note is the “Games Room,” a semi-private section on the first floor often reserved for informal gatherings. It’s furnished with its own bar and sometimes a pool table, accommodating around 50–70 people. The Games Room isn’t always publicly accessible unless booked, but if you’re at an event that uses it, expect a relaxed living-room vibe where you can lounge and play games away from the main bustle.

Overall, the variety of seating and layouts at Foxglove means you can tailor your experience. If you want lively interaction and dancing, stick to the main floor or ballroom center. For comfort and conversation, snag a couch in Foxtail or a patio seat outside. There aren’t many “bad” areas, but note that near the main ground-floor bar it can get crowded three-deep when it’s busy, and close to the DJ booth or speakers it will be loud. If you value a great view, target upstairs balcony spots or outside tables. And if you’re with a large group, consider reserving a section or arriving early to push some tables together, as the venue does fill up especially on weekend nights. Each corner of Foxglove offers something different, which is part of the charm – it’s like several venues in one.

Getting There and Parking

Location: Foxglove Bar & Kitchen is centrally located at 33 Queens Wharf, Wellington – right along the waterfront in the downtown area. It’s adjacent to other waterfront attractions; for reference, it’s a short stroll from the Wellington Museum and the TSB Arena/Shed 6 event center. If you’re coming from the central business district, the venue is easily reachable on foot: roughly a 5-minute walk from the north end of Lambton Quay or about 10–15 minutes from the Wellington Railway Station. The waterfront pedestrian promenade will lead you right to Queens Wharf, or you can approach from the street side via Jervois Quay and look for the heritage building with Foxglove’s signage and outdoor umbrellas.

Public Transport: Using public transit is a convenient option. Nearly all local buses heading into the city center have stops within walking distance of Foxglove. The closest bus stops are in the Lambton Quay/Customhouse Quay area (stops near Brandon Street or opposite Queens Wharf). From those stops it’s just a couple of minutes’ walk down towards the water. Wellington Railway Station (which is also the hub for many bus routes and suburban trains) is about 800m away – an easy flat walk if you’re arriving by train or by one of the airport shuttles that terminate at the station. There’s no dedicated ferry to Queens Wharf except sightseeing boats, but if you happen to be coming from across the harbour on the East-West Ferry, the Lambton Harbour ferry terminal is not far either. In short, Foxglove sits in a well-connected area – you can get there by bus, train, or simply walking from most downtown points.

Parking: Parking in Wellington’s city center can be challenging, but there are options if you plan to drive. Queens Wharf itself has a public parking lot right beside the venue (the same open-air lot used for the TSB Arena). This is a paid parking area – rates are typically around NZ$4 per half-hour (about $8 per hour) during daytime, and a flat evening rate may apply after 5 or 6pm (often around $12–$16 for night parking). Spaces can be limited, especially if there’s an event at the arena or on the waterfront, so it’s wise to arrive early if you intend to park there. An alternative is the multi-level parking garage on Grey Street (a 5-minute walk away), which sometimes offers slightly cheaper rates (around $6 for 2 hours) and more availability. Additionally, the Sky Stadium parking or Plimmer Tower/Bond Street car parks are a bit further (10–15 min walk) but can be fallback options on weekdays.

Be aware of Wellington City Council street parking as well: there are a few metered spots along nearby streets like Jervois Quay and Willis Street. These typically have time limits (max 2 hours) and charge during business hours and early evening. The good news is street parking is free after certain hours (usually free after 8pm weekdays and on Sundays, but always double-check the signage as it can vary by zone). If you snag a street park in the evening, it can be a cost-effective solution, though finding one close by on a busy Friday or Saturday night might be tricky. For those unfamiliar with driving in Wellington, also note that some streets in the immediate area are one-way or have bus-only lanes; use a GPS to navigate to “Queens Wharf” to reach the parking lot entrance without hassle.

Rideshare and Taxi: Many Foxglove patrons opt for taxis or rideshare services (Uber, Ola, etc.), especially if they’ll be drinking. Simply set your drop-off location to Foxglove Bar & Kitchen – drivers will typically pull into the Queens Wharf area or along Jervois Quay adjacent to the venue. There’s a convenient pick-up/drop-off spot by the entrance where the flow of traffic is slower, so you can hop out safely. At closing time or after an event, you’ll usually see a queue of Ubers and taxis in the vicinity; it’s a well-known nightlife spot, so drivers are often already around. The advantage of not driving is you won’t have to worry about parking at all, and you can fully enjoy Foxglove’s cocktails and wine selection responsibly. If you do drive and park, remember to secure any valuables out of sight and note the closing time of your parking facility (some parking garages lock overnight, whereas the open-air lots do not). Overall, given its central location, Foxglove is very accessible – many locals even just walk from work or from other downtown bars, soaking in the harbor scenery on the way.

Inside the Venue

Stepping inside Foxglove, you’ll be greeted by an atmosphere that’s both relaxed and refined. The entry is usually through the ground-floor main doors facing the waterfront. During regular hours, you can simply walk in and a host or staff member may greet you and help find a table if you’re dining. On extremely busy nights or when a private function is happening, you might encounter a short line at the door – particularly later at night when they start checking IDs (Foxglove must ensure all patrons after a certain hour are 18+ since it’s a bar). Generally, early evening entry is smooth and casual, but after about 10pm on weekends they often have security at the door. Expect a quick ID check and possibly a bag check if there’s a major event (standard practice to ensure no outside alcohol or unsafe items come in). The door staff are friendly but firm – they enforce capacity limits and dress code gently (e.g. extremely casual beachwear or untidy attire might get a suggestion to spruce up, but there’s no strict formal dress code; neat casual is fine).

Once inside, the ambiance is warm and inviting. The interior design features an eclectic mix of vintage decor and modern comfort. You’ll notice touches like antique light fixtures, patterned wallpapers, and historic framed photos on the walls, alongside modern elements like a well-equipped sound system and theatrical lighting that can change the mood for nighttime. The lighting is typically dimmed in the evening to a warm glow, complemented by candles or fairy lights, which enhances the cozy vibe. Despite the upscale decor, Foxglove doesn’t feel stuffy – the overall feel is approachable and buzzing with conversation. Patrons might be dressed in anything from office wear to stylish weekend outfits, contributing to an atmosphere that is both chic and unpretentious.

Food and Drink: Foxglove prides itself on being as much “Kitchen” as “Bar.” There are multiple dining options on-site. The main bar offers a gastropub-style menu with Kiwi and international favorites – think gourmet burgers, seafood chowder, shared plates like calamari and fries, and seasonal chef specials using local produce. There’s also WOLF, the dry-aged steak restaurant tucked within Foxglove, which provides a more formal dining experience (perfect for steak lovers looking for a sit-down meal with table service). You can order food at most spots in the venue until fairly late (the kitchen usually stays open for dinner service until around 9:30–10pm on busy nights). If you’re at a table, servers will take your order, or you can order at the bar if you’re just grabbing snacks with your drinks. The cocktail list here is a highlight – Foxglove’s mixologists craft signature cocktails often with playful names (sometimes nodding to the “fox” theme or local culture). Classics like Manhattans and Negronis are well-made, and you’ll find creative seasonal concoctions as well. There’s an extensive wine list featuring New Zealand wines (Marlborough Sauvignon Blancs, Otago Pinot Noirs, etc.) as well as international picks. Beer drinkers will find a range of New Zealand craft beers on tap alongside popular international brews. One standout feature is the whiskey and spirits selection at the Foxtail bar: they stock rare whiskies, gins, and other spirits – if you’re a connoisseur, ask the bartender in Foxtail for recommendations unique to their collection.

As for amenities, Foxglove has you covered. There are clean restrooms on each level (ground floor and first floor). The first-floor restrooms, near the Ballroom, include an accessible toilet as well. Given the building’s age, installing facilities was done thoughtfully – you’ll find the bathrooms modern in function (good water pressure, decent space) yet in keeping with the style (black-and-white tiles, vintage accents in decor). If you’re attending a large event, note where the bathrooms are early on to avoid wandering – they’re signposted, but a bit tucked away down a hallway upstairs. The venue offers a coat check service on select occasions: usually for ticketed events in winter or formal functions, they’ll set up a staffed coat check near the entrance. On regular nights, there isn’t a permanent coat room, so plan to keep your coat with you or drape it over your chair (the staff and crowd are generally respectful, but it’s always wise to keep valuables on you). Speaking of valuables, Foxglove is a casual environment and people often leave bags by their seat while dancing, but it’s advisable to keep an eye on your belongings, as you would anywhere busy.

Connectivity: In terms of connectivity, most guests rely on their mobile network – coverage is generally solid since you’re in the heart of the city (you might only get a slight hiccup if you’re deep in the building’s interior with thick walls, but stepping a few feet usually fixes that). Foxglove does have Wi-Fi available for patrons; you can ask the bar staff for the current Wi-Fi password if you need it (handy if you’re sharing photos of the harbor view or posting about the great cocktail you’re having). Noise-wise, the venue’s atmosphere can shift from mellow background music in the daytime to a vibrant, louder scene at night. If you’re there to socialize, expect to raise your voice a little over the music as the evening progresses. For those sensitive to noise, earlier evenings or the quieter Foxtail lounge are better spots. Service at Foxglove is typically friendly and attentive. Staff circulate to clear glasses and check on tables, and even when the bar is slammed with orders, they work efficiently. It’s fine to go up to the bar to order drinks if you’re not seated, and you’ll usually get served in turn without a long wait except perhaps at peak late-night rushes. The mix of professional service and a fun-loving crowd ensures that inside Foxglove, you feel taken care of while still part of a lively Wellington party.

Nearby Amenities

One of the perks of Foxglove’s location is the abundance of things to do and places to go in the immediate vicinity. If you’re planning a full evening out, you can treat Foxglove as either the main event or a superb starting/ending point. For instance, pre-show dining options are plentiful. Many people heading to concerts or sporting events at the nearby TSB Arena choose Foxglove for a meal or drink beforehand, thanks to its close proximity. If Foxglove’s menu doesn’t suit or you’re seeking variety, within a 2-minute walk you have choices like Shed 5 (an upscale seafood restaurant located in another historic wharf shed) and Dockside (a restaurant & bar on the next pier, known for its seafood and large outdoor deck). For something casual, The Crab Shack (right next door to Foxglove) offers fun, nautical-themed dining with emphasis on seafood buckets and chowders – great for families or a quick bite. There are also numerous eateries along nearby Courtenay Place and Lambton Quay (each about 10 minutes walk) if you want to wander a bit: from burger joints and food courts to fine dining, the central city has it all. In short, coming early to the area means you can enjoy Wellington’s culinary scene around Queens Wharf and then head into Foxglove for the main entertainment.

For those looking to grab after-dinner drinks or extend the night, Foxglove itself is a good base – you might start there with cocktails, then hop to other bars later, or vice versa. Nearby nightlife includes elegant hotel bars like the Lobby Lounge at the InterContinental Hotel (for a quieter upscale drink) or more rowdy spots on Courtenay Place if you’re chasing a late-night dance club atmosphere after Foxglove closes. However, many would argue you needn’t go elsewhere – Foxglove on a buzzing night provides both the drinks and dancing in one venue. Still, it’s nice to know that if you want to change scenery, places like Dirty Little Secret (a rooftop bar) or Red Monkey (a karaoke bar) are a short walk or cab ride away.

If you’re visiting from out of town, nearby hotels are within easy reach. In fact, a few are practically around the corner: the five-star InterContinental Wellington is a 3-minute walk, and moderate options like ibis Wellington or Rydges Wellington are also within 5-10 minutes walking distance. Being so central means you can stay in the CBD and not worry about long travel times to get “home” after an evening at Foxglove – a big plus if you plan to enjoy the nightlife. Even the waterfront area itself is well-lit and populated at night, so walking back to your hotel or to a taxi stand is generally safe and pleasant. For ease of departure, you might consider heading out just a tad before closing time to beat any crowds looking for taxis, or simply use your smartphone to book a rideshare while you finish up your last drink.

As for timing and flow: if you’re coming to Foxglove for an event, check door opening times. Often, doors might open say 8pm for a ticketed event – arriving on time ensures you get in and can choose your spot before it gets crowded. If you’re just coming on a regular night, the prime time is usually around 7-9pm for dinner service (when it’s lively but still easy to get a table), and 10pm onwards for the bar scene (when the music gets louder and the late-night crowd builds). There’s usually a gentle lull in between dinner and late-night when staff flip the vibe – you might see them moving some furniture aside to clear space for dancing, for instance. During that time (around 9:30pm), grabbing a drink on the deck and watching the harbor lights is a great way to pass the time.

Finally, when it comes to late-night transportation, Wellington offers options but planning helps. Standard bus and train services wind down around midnight (with only very limited night bus routes after that), so don’t count on public transport if you stay until closing. Instead, keep the number of a taxi service handy or use a rideshare app as mentioned. Wellington’s downtown is compact, so if you’re staying in the city center or nearby neighborhoods like Te Aro or Thorndon, walking is also feasible and common – just bring a jacket for the potentially brisk waterfront air. The central taxi stand is on Courtenay Place and another near Lambton Quay; you can easily divert there on foot if needed. Many folks also arrange rides together – sharing a cab with new friends you met at the bar is not unusual and a fun way to cap off the night.

What Makes This Venue Special

Foxglove Bar & Kitchen isn’t just another bar – it’s a venue with soul and story, which is why it holds a special place in Wellington’s cultural scene. First, the architecture and history set it apart: drinking or dining in a 19th-century building that was literally floated across the harbor gives a sense of charm and legend to your night. You can often feel the history in the wood-paneled walls and the slightly creaky floorboards, even as you sip a modern craft cocktail. This juxtaposition of old and new creates an atmosphere that’s hard to replicate. The fact that Foxglove has preserved and celebrated this historic structure (known historically as the Steamship Wharf building) means it’s more than a bar – it’s like a living museum piece that locals are proud of. In a city that values its heritage, Foxglove stands as an example of how to do it right: keep the character, but make it fun and functional for today’s generation.

Another standout feature is the venue’s sense of whimsy and discovery – best symbolized by the secret wardrobe door to the Foxtail bar. It’s the kind of quirky touch that people talk about and remember. Bringing a friend to Foxglove for the first time and watching their delight as you lead them through a closet into a hidden speakeasy is an experience in itself! That kind of playful design element shows that Foxglove isn’t afraid to be unique and a bit theatrical. It’s become almost a rite of passage in Wellington’s nightlife – “Have you been through the wardrobe at Foxglove yet?” – a conversation starter that adds to community lore.

Foxglove is also special for the memories and moments it has hosted. Over the years it’s been the backdrop for countless personal milestones: engagements on the balcony at sunset, wedding receptions dancing away in the ballroom, birthday parties toasting with champagne in Foxtail, and even informal after-parties where international artists or sports stars mingle with locals post-event. The flexibility and welcoming nature of the space means it can be a fancy venue one night and a come-as-you-are hangout the next. Artists who have DJed or performed here often remark on the intimate connection with the audience – it’s a big space that can feel surprisingly personal when everyone is united by the music and mood.

Culturally, Foxglove has made its mark by being inclusive and versatile. It’s as much beloved by the business crowd (for Friday socials and client dinners) as it is by creative types and partygoers. It anchors the Queens Wharf area as an evening destination, thereby enlivening Wellington’s waterfront beyond just daytime museum visits. Economically, it provides jobs and draws visitors, and collaborates with local producers for its menu, thereby supporting the region. Many community events, like charity fundraisers and alumni gatherings, have taken place here, showing that Foxglove isn’t just about nightlife – it’s woven into the community’s fabric. In simple terms, Foxglove manages to be many things at once: a historic landmark, a trendy bar, a live-music lounge, and a community venue, all wrapped in one elegant package. That special blend of roles, combined with the sheer style of the place, gives Foxglove a magnetism. Both Wellingtonians and tourists find themselves charmed – whether it’s the first time they spot the building on a sunny afternoon or the memory of a late night dancing under its chandeliers – and that enduring appeal is what truly makes Foxglove Bar & Kitchen extraordinary.

Visitor Tips and Information

• Accessibility: Foxglove is wheelchair accessible. There’s an elevator at the back of the building that provides access to the upper floor (ask staff for assistance or directions to it, as it’s slightly tucked away). The venue also has an accessible restroom on the first floor. Overall, the staff are very accommodating – if you have mobility needs or other accessibility questions, they’ll be happy to help make your visit comfortable.
• Age Restrictions: During daytime and early evening, Foxglove operates as a restaurant/bar and all ages are generally welcome (you might see families at weekend brunch). After a certain hour in the evening (usually around 9–10pm), it effectively becomes an R18 venue – minors will need to depart, and only those 18 and over (the legal drinking age in NZ) are allowed in. Always carry a valid photo ID (passport, NZ driver’s license, or 18+ card) if you look under 25, as security will check.
• Dress Code: There’s no strict dress code, but the general guideline is smart-casual. People tend to dress up a notch on Friday and Saturday nights – think nice jeans or chinos, stylish tops, dresses, etc. (suits or high heels are fine but not required). You won’t need formal wear, but extremely casual beach attire or torn clothing might get you a polite refusal late at night. Basically, dress comfortably but presentably, and you’ll fit right in.
• Timing Your Visit: If you’re coming for a meal with a view, consider arriving before sunset – the waterfront scenery is gorgeous in the early evening (and you might catch golden hour light on the harbor). Conversely, if your goal is to dance and enjoy the nightlife atmosphere, arrive around 10–11pm when the DJ or live entertainment is in full swing. There’s typically a lull on weeknights after dinner and before late-night, but Thursdays through Saturdays get lively later on.
• Peak Times & Lines: On popular event nights or weekend late hours, Foxglove can reach capacity. If you arrive late (say 11pm on a busy Saturday), be prepared for a short queue outside. The line usually moves as people come and go, but if there’s a one-in, one-out situation, patience is key. To avoid lines, come a bit earlier in the evening. Once inside, if it’s crowded, note that bars can be three-deep – flag down bartenders with a friendly wave and be ready with your order to keep things moving.
• Food Service: The kitchen generally takes last orders around 9 or 10pm (later on Friday/Saturday if it’s busy). If you’re hungry late at night, plan accordingly or enjoy some bar snacks earlier. They do have small bites like fries, sliders or cheese boards that may be available even as the night wears on, but it’s best to fill up before the full kitchen closes. On weekends, they sometimes have a brunch or lunch service earlier in the day – check their current hours if you’re interested in a daytime visit.
• Reservations: For dinner, especially on weekends or if you’re a larger group, reserve a table in advance. It guarantees you a spot and often the better-located tables (like by the window or on the balcony) can be requested. However, if you drop in without a booking and the place is full, don’t be shy about checking upstairs – occasionally the upstairs might have free tables even if the ground floor looks packed (unless reserved for a private event).
• Private Events Warnings: Foxglove is a sought-after private event venue (for weddings, corporate functions, etc.). It’s worth checking their website or calling ahead if you plan to visit on a particular date, just to ensure it’s not closed for a private function. Sometimes only one floor might be booked privately (e.g., a wedding in the Ballroom) while the rest of the venue remains open to public – in such cases you can still visit but one section will be off-limits. Usually, these events are more common on Sundays or weekday evenings rather than prime-time Saturday nights, but it varies.
• The Secret Wardrobe: Yes, the rumors are true – there’s a secret entrance to the upstairs Foxtail bar through an old wardrobe. To find it, head up the main staircase to the first floor, walk along until you see what looks like a wooden wardrobe against the wall… and open the doors. It feels like stepping into Narnia! Inside lies the Foxtail cocktail lounge. It’s a fun Easter egg of the venue; even if you just pop in for a look, it’s worth doing. Just keep your voice down if it’s a quieter night – Foxtail often has a more relaxed vibe than the Ballroom next door.
• Smoking Area: By law, indoor smoking is not allowed in New Zealand bars, and Foxglove is no exception. However, smokers can go to the outdoor deck area. There are ashtray stations on the waterfront deck where smoking is permitted. If you’re a non-smoker, the deck is large enough that you can still enjoy the air without sitting right next to smokers – but just be aware that later in the evening that’s where people might step out for a smoke.
• Payments: Foxglove accepts all major payment methods. Credit and debit cards (including payWave/contactless) are widely used – New Zealand is largely cashless these days – and of course cash is accepted too. They can run a tab for your table if you provide a card behind the bar. Splitting bills among friends is common; just let the waitstaff know early if you prefer separate checks, they are usually accommodating. Tipping is not required in NZ, but if you have great service, it’s always appreciated to leave a little extra or round up.
• Safety & Conduct: Foxglove’s management and staff prioritize a safe, enjoyable environment. Security guards are present during peak times – they’re there for your safety, so feel free to approach them or any staff if you have any concerns or feel uncomfortable. The crowd is generally friendly and mixed. As with any nightlife spot, keep an eye on your drinks and belongings. It’s a good idea to stay hydrated – free water is available at the bar (just ask for a glass of water or find the water station often set up near the bar). If you’re out on the deck, mind the railing after a few drinks – it’s secure and not right on the edge of the pier or anything, but best not to climb or lean too far, obviously. Lastly, New Zealand’s liquor laws mean bar staff won’t serve intoxicated patrons, so pace yourself to ensure you’re not cut off early; Foxglove staff are professional and will diplomatically let you know if you should switch to water for a bit.
• After the Event: When the night wraps up (Foxglove’s closing is typically around midnight on weekdays, later – up to 2am – on weekends if there’s demand), the staff will do last call and gradually encourage patrons to finish up. You don’t have to rush out the door immediately – they usually give people time to drink up and gather their things. It’s courteous to settle your bill before the very last minute to avoid the queue at the register at closing time. Outside, the waterfront area is well-lit, but it will get quieter as people disperse. If you’re waiting for a ride, it’s best to stand by the main entrance or under the awnings if it’s raining. Wellington can be breezy at night by the water, so tossing a light jacket in your bag for the end of the night is wise, even if you didn’t need it earlier.

Frequently Asked Questions