About Meow
Meow is a small, vibrant live-music bar and late-night venue tucked away on Edward Street in the heart of Wellington’s Te Aro district. Open since around 2010, it has become known as Wellington’s “musical living room” – a homey spot for music lovers and their friends. The venue itself occupies a brick-lined storefront on a narrow lane between Manners and Willis Streets, giving it a hidden-gem feel. Inside, the space is decked out with quirky decor (think vintage lounge-cafe style with art, cosy booth seating and a fully stocked bar), lending it a relaxed community vibe.
Despite its modest size, Meow’s reputation has grown over the years: it’s famous for showcasing local talent and touring national/international acts across jazz, blues, rock, electronic and more. Signature features include a rotating tap list of craft beers (often featuring New Zealand microbrews), creative bar eats (in the past they’ve run items like wild wallaby wontons and unique burger mash-ups), and a friendly lounge-like atmosphere. The building’s low round stage and pro PA make every gig feel up-close, which artists and audiences love. In short, Meow’s charm comes from being a purpose-built music bar with a welcoming, living-room vibe, rather than a generic nightclub. Over a decade of continuous programming has cemented its place as a cornerstone of Wellington’s live music scene.
Events and Programming
Meow’s calendar is packed most weeks with something happening. It hosts a wide variety of live events: weekly and monthly jazz and blues nights, folk and singer-songwriter showcases, indie and alternative rock concerts, world-music showcases, open-mic evenings, poetry and spoken-word nights, and high-energy club/DJ parties (especially on weekends). For example, the Wellington Jazz Festival brightly lights up Meow every October with packed double- or triple-headliner nights (in recent years artists like Zoe Moon & the Soul Spectrum, Kirika, and The Queens of Swing have played it). Local promoters also bring huge touring acts to Meow: recent headliners have included iconic indie band Blonde Redhead (June 2024) and Auckland garage-punk act WITCH (March 2024). On any given week you might find reggae, cabaret and dance.
Some recurring events include
Wellington Jazz Club Nights: The local jazz cooperative often meets monthly at Meow (3rd Sunday of the month) for jam sessions or special concerts, making Meow a go-to spot for jazz aficionados.Slam poetry and readings: The venue hosts spoken-word evenings (in partnership with groups like Verb Wellington) featuring poets, comedy and storytelling. Live bands and Asian drum & bass nights: Promoters run club nights under series names like “Immersion” or “High Tide,” bringing international DJs and drum’n’bass talent alongside Wellington beatsmiths.Open Mic and Community Events: Weekly open-mic nights, acoustic jams and even community talks or comedy nights pop up, giving locals a chance to perform or socialize after hours.
In general, Meow’s scheduled programming is very active: it often hosts shows 4–6 nights a week, especially Thursday through Saturday. Ticket prices vary by event: most smaller/local gigs or late-night DJ sets are in the $10–$25 range, whereas headline concerts or festival slots (like a big Jazz Fest show) can range $20–$50 or more depending on demand. Many gigs offer general-admission standing room, but occasional concerts have limited stools or balcony seating. With its nimble staff and sound system, Meow accommodates everything from acoustic solo sets to full drum kits and DJ turntables.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Meow’s events are usually sold online through the venue’s official channels or event promoters (often via sites like Flicket or local ticketing agencies). For high-demand concerts, tickets often go on sale several weeks in advance and can sell out quickly; it’s best to subscribe to Meow’s (or promoters’) email list or social media to watch for announcements. Smaller gigs or open-mic evenings may be free or available at the door.
There is no permanent box-office office at Meow, since it’s a bar-style venue, so there’s no walk-up ticket counter outside of showtime. Door sales are sometimes available if an event isn’t sold out – arriving early is key for in-person tickets. For big shows, promoters sometimes offer a presale (via their own newsletters or fan clubs) before general sale. In practice, the easiest way to secure entry is to book tickets online in advance. On the night of a show, the entrance usually opens 20–30 minutes before curtain/EDM beat time, so plan to arrive early if buying afterwards. Ticket refunds or exchanges at the door generally aren’t available, so only attend if you have a confirmed ticket or are happy to pay on arrival (if the show lists “door tickets welcome”).
Seating and Layout
Meow is mostly an all-ages bar with a general-admission floor plan. There is essentially one main performance area (no traditional balcony), with a small raised stage at one end. The bar runs along one side of the room, and there are a few cushioned booths or bar stools along walls. When an event is happening, the central area in front of the stage is standing-room only; most patrons gather there to dance or watch. On busy nights, this floor can fill up – it’s a good idea to stake out a position early, especially if you want a front-row spot.
If you want to sit or have more personal space, the edges of the room are better. The side tables or rear lounge area (if any seating is open) allow a view while staying out of the densest crowds. From an acoustic point of view, sound engineers say the audio is quite clear throughout Meow since it’s a small room, but it will be loud near the speakers. The house PA (as per technical specs) is professional-grade, so even standing to the side of the stage gives a full mix. The very back, by the entrance, tends to be slightly quieter (good for some breathing room), but doesn’t usually have the best view of the stage lighting. In summary: front-center gives the best sound and sightlines if you don’t mind a packed crowd, while the rear or side areas provide breathing space if you’d like to sit or lounge between sets.
Getting There and Parking
Location: Meow is at 9 Edward Street, Te Aro – an off-the-grid lane just off busy Willis Street and two blocks from Manners Street. If you know Wellington, it’s the block directly behind the Courtenay Central food court. Because Edward Street itself is very narrow, there’s no on-street parking directly outside. The most straightforward way is to walk through the courtyard entrance: from Willis Street, enter the covered food court arcade (behind the McDonald’s) then duck through a small alley toward Edward. From Manners Street, you can also access Edward via a laneway past the Chinese Garden Cathay Furniture building. Once you peek down Edward Street, you’ll see the plain brick facade of Meow about 30 metres ahead.
Public Transit: Wellington’s bus network (Metlink) has frequent services on the nearby corridors. The Willis/Vivian Street corridor (just 1-2 minutes’ walk) is served by many city routes (numbers 1, 17, 38 etc.), so you can catch a bus to Willis or Victoria and stroll over. Manners Street (a 3-minute walk) is also a bus hub for routes coming from the north. The nearest train is Wellington Railway Station on Bunny Street: from there it’s a 10–15 minute walk south along Lambton Quay, then Manners up. During the Jazzfest and other big events, the City Gallery and Lambton Quay stops are convenient. Rideshare cars (Uber or local providers) can drop you on Willis Street or Victoria near the Food Court, which is the easiest access – just tell the driver “Food Court/Edwards Street, Te Aro”.
Driving and Parking: Street parking is very limited near Meow. Edward Street itself has no parking at all. Paid parking is available a few blocks away: the nearest off-street parking is Wilson’s Hall Street car park (costs around $4–$5 per hour, at 7–11 Hall Street) and a small public lot on Manners Street (38–44 Manners Street). Other options include the Lower Willis car park or nearby Wilson Lots (self-park on Willis, Taranaki or Boulcott Street). Paid metered street parking runs on Willis and Taranaki Streets, but city parking zones fill fast on a weeknight. If you drive, plan to arrive early to find space – note that on an event night locals often use the parking buildings a few blocks away (by Courtenay Place or Lambton Quay) and either walk or take a short cab down.
Walking: For a city center venue, Meow is easy to reach on foot. It's about a 10-minute walk from Courtenay Place, 15 from Lambton Quay (city center), and 12 from Te Papa museum. The entrance down Edward St is marked by a simple green awning. In bad weather, the covered food court route off Willis offers some shelter. After a show, the walk back to main City buses (on Willis or Victoria) is short, and city cabs circulate down Manners or Willis well into the night.
Inside the Venue
Entry and Security: Expect a friendly doorman or host at the entrance. For evening events, show your ID (16+ age, and 18+ after ~8pm) and your ticket or name on the guest list. Bags may be checked quickly, particularly on big nights. After entry you step into a simple brick-walled space open to the bar and stage. On a typical night the lights are dimmed to create a club/concert mood. Music starts around advertised showtime – door times are usually 30–45 minutes before first act.
You’ll see a long bar along one side stocked with bar stools and taps. The friendly bar staff pour beers, serve cocktails and often have a small menu of appetizers or light meals (in past menus have included nachos, sliders, wok-fried snacks and the aforementioned wallaby wontons). Often Fizzy Water or simple snacks like peanuts are on the bar. Popular tip: the “Happy Hour” quoted by locals (around closing time on late nights) is more about the lively atmosphere than a real discount. Meow does have bottle service/order-from-bar for some events (e.g. reserved tables with champagne are sometimes offered), but on any given night most people simply order drinks at the bar and then join the crowd. Service is generally quick even when busy – bartenders are accustomed to a rush between sets.
Atmosphere: Meow tends to be bustling. During a live set the stage lighting and lasers focus on performers; between sets the mood is more pub-like (often with chill or DJ interlude music). The vibe is lively and communal. By 10pm the room is often full, especially on weekends or fest nights. If you like to dance, the entire front space becomes a little dance floor. If you want to mingle or rest, the wooden benches or lounges on the sides and back are available (though often taken). There is no formal coat-check counter; many patrons simply hang coats on chairs or carry them in. Be warned: on a packed night there is limited personal space, so plan accordingly – it’s a standing-room crowd. Floors are often wooden or laminate, and ironically Meow has been described as a slightly upscale version of a classic camper-van interior, meaning it can get warm and a bit sticky when the crowd builds.
Food and Drink: Meow has a kitchen serving bar snacks and small meals most nights (closing around 9–10pm). They work with local breweries and wineries, so most nights you’ll see NZ craft beer on tap, plus wine, spirits and a short cocktail list. The pub-grub menu changes seasonally; often they grill meats and veggies central Caribbean BBQ style. (Because this is a licensed bar, only limited food is served – early evening concerts sometimes encourage patrons to grab dinner before the first set, or eat downstairs at neighbouring cafes.) Payment can be credit card or EFTPOS – most Wellington venues accept cards at the bar for drinks or food. Signature drinks include local craft ales and a selection of communal cocktails/per tradition, e.g. “Meow meow” margarita specials.
Facilities: There are restrooms backstage toward the rear of the bar. These are standard venue bathrooms (men/women/toilet), usually singular stalls each, so expect a short wait at peak times. There is no dedicated coat-bag storage, so use your best judgement on coat security. There is no public Wi-Fi; phone reception is usually fine for cellular data (Spark/2degrees/Vodafone all cover Te Aro well). Artists often sell merch (CDs, T-shirts, posters) near the bar area after their sets, so bring some cash if you’re interested in souvenirs.
Nearby Amenities
Pre-Show Dinner and Drinks: The Te Aro neighborhood is full of dining options. Just a block east on Cuba Street you’ll find cafés and ethnic eats: popular spots include Fidel’s Cafe (Cuban sandwiches, brunch fare), The Sandwich Team (gourmet subs), various Asian noodle bars around Tory/Manners. For sit-down restaurants, the nearby Dixon Street (two blocks north) has choices like Nomad (Mediterranean small plates), Little Bird (New Zealand fusion) or Luca (casual Italian). If you prefer pub fare, the Rogue and Vagabond (next door, 3 Manners St) and Little Beer Quarter (Cuba St) are brewpubs with hearty pub grub and burgers. It’s hard to run out of options: Vietnamese pho, sushi train, Indian curry houses and more line the streets within 5 minutes’ walk.
Pre-Show Drinks: Wellington loves its bars. A couple steps from Meow on Victoria and Willis are cocktail lounges and wine bars – for example, Little Beer Quarter (LBQ) right above Meow on the mezzanine is a great beer bar, and Vivo (around the corner on Courtenay Place) offers a large wine selection. Havana Bar (Cuba Street) or Hawthorn Lounge (Onecue Terrace near Cuba/Kitchen W). All are lively early-evening picks for a nightcap or last drink before heading in. Also nearby is the famous “Flying Burrito Brothers” on Cuba (funny but appropriate name), if you’re craving tacos and tequila.
Hotels and Lodging: Fiordland Motel (on Tory Street) and Travelodge (adjacent on Willis Street) are only a block or two from Meow, making early “staycation” stops easy. On Courtenay Place (the main entertainment street) there’s also Ibis Wellington, Novotel, QT, and the Mile Plaza backpacker. In Te Aro you’ll find mid-range chain hotels too. If you plan to catch a late show or have drinks, choosing one of these nearby hotels means you get back to your room fast (an important tip after 3am finishes!).
After-Show Transit: Late at night, Wellington’s free night buses (the “NightRider” or local shuttle taxis) run along Willis and Courtenay until 4am. Rideshares (Uber, Ola) can easily pick up from Manners or Willis – just warn your driver Edward Street can be difficult to enter. Walking home is generally safe and straightforward thanks to brighter city lights. Tip: if it’s a big festival or busy gig, try leaving Meow a few minutes early to avoid the throng at closing time; the short walk to the main road is much easier once the line at the door has thinned.
What Makes This Venue Special
Meow’s uniqueness lies in the mix of intimacy and ambition. Architecturally it’s nothing like a converted theatre or huge club – it’s a one-room brick block with a friendly “living room” vibe. Yet over the years it has punched above its weight. Many Wellingtonians have fond memories of hometown heroes and international acts playing in this little space, creating a feeling that anything from funk jams to punk rock can happen at Meow. It’s also one of the few venues to consciously support a broad range of cultural events – from jazz standards to slam poetry – under one roof. This eclecticism has earned it a cult reputation: patrons often describe Meow as the kind of place you stumble into expecting a quiet drink, but emerge convinced you’ve been part of something unique.
Historically, Edward Street is a quirky remnant of old Wellington, and Meow carries that legacy. The street outlasted city rebuilds for over 150 years, and Meow carries on the tradition by providing a cornerstone for live arts in an evolving neighbourhood. In fact, press profiles have called it “Wellington’s hidden gem” – a safe haven for emerging artists who want attentive audiences. Elevating Meow’s story, the owners recently transformed an old church on Vivian Street into a sister venue (Meow Nui), emphasizing their commitment to growing Wellington’s music scene. But no matter how big those ambitions get, Meow itself remains special for its honest grassroots feel. Artists who have played sold-out shows there say they love its sound mix and crowd engagement, and fans say it feels like an evening at friends’ home with a great band playing.
In short, Meow matters because it’s a genuine community hub as much as a bar – a place where people meet for new experiences every night, whether it’s dancing to a funky DJ set, discovering an up-and-coming Kiwi band, or enjoying a slam poem. The venue’s decade-long history as a fiercely independent, artist-run space is ingrained in Wellington’s culture. It’s earned nicknames like “the coolest room in the city,” and it keeps surprising people with the variety and quality of shows it hosts. When you walk through its doors, you’re not just at another club – you’re at a landmark of Pōneke’s music life.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Meow is mostly at street level with a wide entrance, which generally makes it accessible to wheelchairs and strollers (though the small laneway approach has a slight curb). Inside, it’s flat and open, without stairs to the performance area. Bathrooms may not all be wheelchair-sized, so check ahead if that’s a concern. The venue does not advertise a formal accessible lift or ramp, but staff are usually happy to assist with doorways and seating. If you have specific accessibility needs, it’s best to email the venue in advance to confirm accommodations.
Age Restrictions: After 6pm Wellington venues typically restrict entry to those 16+ (and 18+ after about 8pm) due to liquor licensing laws. Meow follows this rule: most late-evening concerts and dance nights will be 18+ only. Occasionally there are all-ages matinee shows or special festival events; those will be clearly marked on tickets. Always carry photo ID (NZ driver’s licence, passport, KiwiAccess Card) if you might be asked. If bringing under-18s, plan to arrive early (when younger teens might still be allowed with an adult) and confirm on the event page if it’s kid-friendly.
What to Bring: Comfortable shoes and clothes are key. Meow is informal – go in anything from jeans and a tee to casual summer wear. Dress in layers if you expect to stand or dance; the crowd can heat up the room quickly. Earplugs are smart, especially if you’re sensitive to sound – the bass can rumble once the big speakers turn on. Cash isn’t strictly necessary (card is accepted at bar and sometimes on orders), but some bands only take cash for merch. A photo ID is essential after dark. Leave large bags, tripods, or professional video cameras at home unless a purchase/ticket explicitly allows them; security may deny entry for bulky items. As with most bars, no outside alcohol or glass is allowed inside.
Common Pitfalls: A frequent newcomer mistake is assuming parking or door access is easy on Edward St. Remember: Meow’s entrance is set back through an alley. If you find yourself on Willis or Manners with no obvious “Meow” sign, look for the alleyway food court or ask a local. Another tip: on a busy night with no tickets left, don’t wait outside in the narrow lane – you won’t be admitted past capacity. Instead, see if a friend in has a spare ticket or come for the next performance. Also, don’t underestimate how early the place can close – if a show is listed at 9pm on a weekday, doors might be as early as 7pm, so plan accordingly.
Labelling: There’s no strict dress code, but some club nights prefer smart-casual attire. Leave flip-flops or sports jerseys for beach days; dancers sometimes favor sneakers or dance shoes. Unless an event is explicitly formal (very rare here), you’ll fit right in with a tidy casual look. Also note that Meow zooms through its night quickly – food and drink orders can line up between sets, so plan to grab what you need well before showtime or between acts. Final suggestion: keep an eye on your belongings. With a crowded dance floor, small bags are easiest.
Other Tips: If you’re eager for souvenirs, ask at the bar about official Meow merch (T-shirts or drink coasters) or better yet, chat with the performers, many of whom sell signed CDs at break time. Don’t be shy about chatting up staff or regulars – Meow has a friendly community feel and people often share insider info on upcoming secret shows. Finally, if you plan to stay late, remember Wellington winds can be chilly in the wee hours; have a jacket handy for the walk or cab ride home. With these tips, you’ll be ready to enjoy all that Meow has to offer safely and comfortably.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I buy tickets for events at Meow?
Most Meow events sell tickets online through official ticketing partners or the venue’s website. Tickets may also be available at the door if the show isn’t sold out. Follow Meow’s social media or mailing list for announcements. Popular shows often sell out in advance, so book as soon as they go on sale.
Where can I park when visiting Meow?
There is no parking on Edward Street itself (it’s too narrow). The closest car parks are Wilson’s Hall Street car park (7-11 Hall St, 3-5 min walk) or Manners Street Parking (short walk). Paid parking also exists on some adjacent side streets (Willis, Taranaki). On-street metered parking is limited. For convenience, consider taking a cab or rideshare and getting dropped at Willis/Victoria Street near the Food Court entrance.
What public transport should I take to Meow?
Many buses pass nearby on Willis, Victoria or Manners streets – just a short walk from Meow. The nearest train is Wellington Station (Lambton Quay), about 10-15 minutes’ walk. Rideshare (Uber) drop-offs work best on Willis or Victoria Street, then walk through the adjacent Food Court alley to reach Meow’s entrance.
Is Meow wheelchair accessible?
Meow is on street level with a wide entry, so it generally accommodates wheelchairs and mobility aids. The interior is on one level (no steps to the performance area). However, confirm in advance if you need specific assistance, as facilities like restrooms may not be fully wheelchair-sized. Contact the venue before your visit for any accessibility needs.
What is the capacity of Meow?
Meow is a relatively small venue (often described as “intimate” or “roomy but fills up fast”). It’s designed for standing-room events, so capacity is roughly equivalent to a large bar. On busy nights you’ll find maybe 100–150 people packed in. The exact number isn’t normally publicized, but plan as if the room will be full for popular shows.
Are seats available at Meow?
Most events at Meow are general admission standing. There are a few bar stools and small benches along the walls, but no reserved seating. If you prefer a seat, try to arrive early to claim one of the occasional free chairs along the side or back. For VIP or private events, sometimes a limited number of table seats are offered (usually by reservation).
Does Meow serve food and drinks?
Yes. Meow has a full bar with local craft beers, wine, and cocktails. Light meals and bar snacks are available from a simple kitchen (served until around 9–10pm). The menu often includes pub-style dishes like nachos, sliders, or dumplings. However, it’s not a restaurant, so food serves are modest – many visitors eat beforehand at nearby eateries.
What is the dress code at Meow?
Meow is casual. Concert and club-goers typically wear jeans, t-shirts, sneakers or whatever is comfortable for dancing. There’s no strict dress code. If you’re out for a night of live music, smart-casual attire (avoiding sportswear or slippers) is a safe bet. Most people come dressed to mingle and dance, not in formal wear.
What are Meow’s opening hours?
As an evening venue, Meow typically opens for events around 7pm and closes by midnight (weeknights) or 3am (Friday/Saturday late shows). It’s usually closed on Sunday and Monday. Individual events will list door times (for example, “Doors 8pm, show 9pm”). Always check the event listing or Meow’s official channels, as hours can vary with special gigs or private functions.
Are cameras or phones allowed inside?
Phones and casual cameras are usually fine for photos or videos at Meow, especially during club nights and open-mic. For some headline concerts, any flash photography or professional cameras may be restricted, so check with the event details. Large tripods or video rigs are generally not allowed. As always, be respectful and refrain from blocking others’ view with your camera.
Is there a coat check?
There isn’t a formal coat-check desk. On most nights people leave light outerwear on backs of chairs or stow them under tables. If it’s a very busy show, some staff may point to a corner or discreet area to hang coats during the evening. For expensive coats, you might want to keep them on you, as there’s nowhere secured to leave them overnight.
What is Meow’s child and age policy?
Meow is primarily an 18+ venue at night due to its full bar license. Generally, after about 8pm only patrons 18 and over are permitted. However, some early shows (e.g. Sunday afternoon Jazz sessions) may be all-ages. Always check the event listing; if it doesn’t say “All Ages,” assume it’s 18+. Underage visitors should have an adult accompany them if allowed. The Wellington Jazz Club night, for example, is 16+ with membership.
Is there wheelchair access to Meow?
The main entrance is ground level with a wide door, so wheelchair entry is possible. Inside is open and on one level (no stairs to the floor). Restrooms may not all be wheelchair-sized. If you have specific access needs (like an elevator for a performer), confirm with the venue. For most wheelchair patrons, it should be navigable, but give staff a heads-up so they can assist if needed.
Can I smoke or vape at Meow?
No smoking is allowed inside Meow (by New Zealand law). There is a small covered courtyard area or doorway outside where patrons often smoke. If you smoke, step outside to clinkers after walking through the alley entrance. Vaping behaves the same way (outside only). Be aware that New Zealand strictly enforces its smoking laws indoors, so don’t light up inside.
