About Red Square Bar
Red Square Bar is a long-running nightclub in central Wellington (Te Aro) known for its high-end, glamorous vibe. Founded in the early 2000s, it occupies a stylish two-level venue on Blair Street near Courtenay Place. The club boasts plush, “old-money” décor – think silver baroque wallpaper, crystal-chandelier lighting and mirrored pillars – balanced by modern disco elements and vibrant LED effects. It’s one of Wellington’s best-known late-night spots, attracting both locals and visitors for its all-night dance parties. Unique features include a well-stocked bar (especially large vodka and cocktail lists) and VIP bottle service tables, making it stand out among the city’s nightlife. With a capacity of a few hundred guests across its two floors, Red Square has been a cultural fixture in Welly’s scene for roughly two decades, known for its elegant lounge area below (the cowboy-themed “Ponderosa” bar) and main dancefloor above.
Events and Programming
Red Square’s programme is dominated by electronic dance music. On most weekends the club turns into a late-night dance party, featuring resident and guest DJs spinning genres like drum- bass, house, techno and other club beats. The motto among patrons is often “dance all night long” – indeed, local sources say drum- bass and deep house run until the early hours. Over the years the venue has hosted both local talent and international DJs on tour. For example, in 2023 Wellington welcomed internationally renowned house DJ Victor Simonelli for a special event at Red Square. Most Saturdays are busy with themed nights or guest DJ showcases. Entry often involves a cover charge (typically in the NZD $10–25 range for regular nights, higher for big-name acts). The club is usually open late – often around 10pm or 11pm start and going until 4am – so it attracts a dancecrazy crowd. On quieter weeknights the vibe is more low-key (often student nights or after-parties), while Fridays and Saturdays see the heaviest turnout. There are no fixed concerts or seated shows here – everything is presented as club nights and dance events. Regular flyers on social media or club promotion sites list upcoming parties by date, genre and DJ line-up; ticket prices vary accordingly. Recurring events might include local EDM nights, indie dance parties or themed club nights (80s nights, Latin beats, etc.), and the style can shift with the event promoter – one gig review notes that “genres change here depending on which promoter is hosting.”
Tickets and Booking
Red Square generally handles tickets on a show-by-show basis. Smaller or midweek nights often allow walk-in entry for a modest cover charge at the door. For busy weekend parties or international acts, advance tickets are usually released by the promoters or on the venue’s event page, sometimes weeks in advance. Prices for special events have ranged around NZD $20–30 (for example, a 2023 DJ show had $25 tickets), while local nights may be in the teens or even free entry before a certain time. There is no separate box-office building; instead, check the club’s official channels or independent event sites for sales and presales. If you see an ad for the show, it typically provides a link or vendor for tickets – often through third-party platforms or the club’s own site. Walk-up sales are common too, unless a show is sold out. For VIP experiences, the venue offers bottle-service tables by reservation (often reflected in higher cover prices or minimum spends). In practice, visitors might call or message the club’s booking contacts (found via promotional flyers) to secure a VIP booth. In summary, the best strategy is to follow Red Square on social media, watch local event listings, or check with promoters – especially for popular Fridays/Saturdays. Even popular shows often allow some door tickets, but arriving early is advised if you haven’t pre-booked.
Seating and Layout
The club is primarily designed for standing and dancing, not formal seating. Inside Red Square Bar, the lower level (also known as Ponderosa) functions as a retro-styled lounge with leather couches and bar stools, while the upper level contains the main dancefloor and DJ booth. There are a handful of cosy booth areas along the back walls of the main floor, and a few elevated viewing platforms or small mezzanine spots near the DJ booth, but most of the space is open for dancing. The bar itself runs along one side of the dancefloor, with high tops and bar seating in front of it. VIP tables (with bottle service) line the edges and corners, clearly separated from the general standing area. Acoustically, the system has enough power for a couple hundred people – reviewers mention a solid bass and loud sound for the size of an inner-city club. Sightlines are best on the main floor facing the DJ decks; if you prefer a break from the crowd, the higher seating by the lounge bar offers some view over the pit. There is no assigned seating or numbered sections. In practice, your “seat” is wherever you stake out space on the dancefloor or lounge. The upstairs and downstairs areas are connected by stairs at the back of the venue. Keep in mind the layout is quite vertical, so anyone with accessibility needs may have limited access (no known elevator), and strobe lighting and loud soundfill the spaces.
Getting There and Parking
Red Square Bar is located at 26 Blair Street in Wellington’s Te Aro district, just a short walk from the Courtenay Place entertainment strip. Public transport to the area is frequent: multiple bus routes serve Courtenay Place right near Blair Street (for example, Wellington buses 1, 2, 23, 24 and 83 all stop within a block). The Queen Elizabeth (Wellington) Railway Station is also walkable (about 900m away), and you can take the Hutt Valley or Johnsonville line trains into town and then stroll or catch a courtesy bus partway. There is no tram or underground; the cable car is not nearby – the main transport hub is the City Library or Station area. If driving, note that on-street parking on Blair is very limited (mostly short-term meters and one disabled bay). The nearest larger car parks are a couple of minutes’ walk: the Lombard Street car park (with about 288 spaces) charges roughly NZD ~$1.20 per 2 hours, and the Willis Street/Lombard car park (~347 spaces) is similarly priced (~$1.60 per 2 hours). These are the closest public lots within a 3–5 minute walk. Street parking on surrounding roads usually has time limits. After hours, street parking enforcement is often lax (Mulchen, but always check signs). Rideshare and taxi drop-offs can typically happen on Blair Street (if you can flag a cab) or on Courtenay Place just up the road. If you’re coming from the airport or beach, the best route is via the highway into the city and then leg it down to Courtenay/Blair. During busy nights, allow extra time to navigate downtown traffic and finding a spot, as Courtenay Place can be congested late at night.
Inside the Venue
When you enter Red Square, expect nightclubbing basics: a ticket/ID check at the door, followed by a quick security patdown. ID is always checked, since it’s 18+ only (carry photo ID). The interior feels dark and moody – lighting is low overall, with coloured beams, disco balls and spotlights on the dancefloor. The vibe is sultry yet energetic. On entry you’ll see the bar area and some seating; the bar serves a full cocktail menu, lots of mixers and a broad spirits selection (notably many vodkas and classic cocktails). Many patrons mention the venue’s long cocktail menu or “frozen drink” innovations – expect standard club drinks rather than meals. Staff behind the bar are typically helpful (they have a good reputation among visitors). There is a small cloakroom/coat check near the entrance for a few dollars fee, so you can offload heavy items. Restrooms (male and female) are on the lower level; they are basic but functional. There is no kitchen, so only bar snacks or pre-made finger food might be available (don’t expect a sit-down meal). Connectivity: the club may offer Wi-Fi at times, but don’t rely on it – phone reception can be patchy near the dancefloor because of thick walls and crowds. If you need internet, it’s safer to do it outside the venue. The overall atmosphere is close-quarters, with intense sound and lights. People dress to impress, and the music is loud. If you want a break, the downstairs shows a quieter lounge corner. Merchandise is not sold here (no club T-shirts or CDs, for instance). The venue is fairly inclusive – staff handle all guests politely, and many affirm visitors of all backgrounds enjoy the space. Finally, remember that smoking must happen outside (Wellington law). Patches of sidewalk or a small outdoor space (weather-permitting) serve as the smoking area, so staff will let you out a side door when needed.
Nearby Amenities
Red Square is in Wellington’s entertainment core, so plenty of amenities are within easy reach. For pre-show dining, you’re in luck: Jugnu’s Little India (18 Blair St) is just around the corner for casual Indian street food, and the Sports Cafe (21 Blair St) offers pub classics. Courtenay Place (one block over) has dozens more: Asian fusion, pizza joints, burger bars, and more – places like Whitebait, Survey or Meow for a quick bite. Coffee shops and bakeries on the strip mean you can grab a latte or pastry on your way in. For nightlife before the club, there’s a bar scene everywhere nearby: the Rogue & Vagabond, Green Parrot, Library Bar and others in the same vicinity. If you want to stay overnight, several hotels are within walking distance – the SO/ and Ibis on Willis Street, and the Intercontinental on Wakefield Street (opposite the train station). Wellington’s downtown hostels and backpacker spots (e.g. YHA on The Terrace) are also a short walk away. Important tip: arrive earlier than the music starts if you want a table or seat at restaurants and bars, as this area fills up on weekends. After closing, the late-night transport options include short walks or Uber/taxi back to your accommodation; note that buses to suburbs don’t run all night, so plan accordingly. The central location means you also have access to nearby attractions if you come earlier – for instance, The Embassy Theatre (by Courtenay/Blair corner) or the waterfront are easy to reach on foot during daylight.
What Makes This Venue Special
Red Square Bar has a distinctive character that sets it apart in Wellington. Architecturally and aesthetically, it marries old-school glamour with modern clubbing. Few other NZ clubs sport such ornate décor (silver pillars and crystal-style lights) alongside a wild-west themed hidden bar upstairs. It’s known for being a “VIP environment” – indeed, local guides point out it’s Wellington’s one nightclub devoted to bottle service and private table bookings. The mix of patrons here tends toward a flashy, well-dressed crowd (“label-clad,” as one review noted) which adds to its “smart-casual” prestige. Over its two decades, Red Square has seen many shifts in music trends, yet it has remained a hub for Wellington’s dance scene. Legendary nights or anniversaries (often kept a mystery) have built a folklore around it as a rite of passage for clubbers. Its long history also gave rise to memorable local moments: long-time Wellington DJs and party-goers have celebrated last-call there more than once. In broader cultural terms, its presence on Courtenay Place helps anchor the city’s nightlife economy – drawing people that keep nearby restaurants, taxis and shops busy at late hours. Musically, artists and fans love it for the sound and vibe; patrons praise its booming bass and energy on dancefloor after midnight. While smaller scenes like Wellington also relish rainbow- and punk-friendly bars, Red Square holds its own as a non-stop party space for everyone. In short, it’s special for its sultry design, late-night party reputation, and long-standing place in local nightlife lore.
Visitor Tips and Information
Plan ahead. As a popular late-night spot, Red Square can get very busy on weekend evenings. Try to arrive before the main crowd if you want a window seat or want to avoid queues. Always bring valid photo ID – it’s strictly 18+ (passport or NZ driver licence is best). Dress stylishly; the venue tends to attract a trendy crowd, so jeans and a nice top are safer than sneakers and shorts. Security checks bags at entry, so travel light. Note that Wellington weather can be wet – bring a raincoat or umbrella to use outdoors, but outside drink holders are not allowed. There is a small coat check inside if you have oversize outerwear. Noise is loud, so if sensitive, consider earplugs. Keep an eye on your personal items when dancing in crowds. The club is cash/non-cash; bar accepts cards but you might want some cash for tips or coat check. Mobile reception is patchy inside; finalise any outside plans before going in. Finally, be respectful in this upscale venue – staff and fellow patrons appreciate good manners. Enjoy the music and dance cautiously in tighter spaces. Red Square is friendly but sticks to the rules (no glass bottles from outside, no illegal drugs, etc.). By following these tips (and maybe showing off your best dance moves), you’ll have a better experience in what is one of Wellington’s most iconic nightlife venues.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to visit Red Square Bar?
Cover charges at Red Square vary by event. On a regular weekend they’re often around NZ$10–$20. Special nights with guest DJs or big parties may charge around NZ$20–$30. For example, a recent headliner event had tickets around NZ$25. Check the event details in advance; if you’re just popping in on a normal club night, you will likely pay a modest door fee.
How can I buy tickets for an event at Red Square?
Tickets for special events are usually sold through promoters or the venue’s official sites. There’s no central box office; look for online ticket links in event ads or social media pages. If an event doesn’t sell out online, you can often buy at the door on the night. VIP tables (with bottle service) are booked separately; you would contact the club’s booking agent or promoter to reserve those. In any case, buying in advance online is safest for popular nights.
What time does Red Square Bar open and close?
Red Square typically opens for nightlife around 10pm or 11pm. Closing time is usually around 4am. For instance, travel listings show a regular schedule of 10pm–4am. Exact times can vary with the event, so always check the flyer or club announcement. If there’s an especially big event, doors might open a bit earlier for queue management, but expect most nights to start late.
Where is Red Square Bar located?
Red Square Bar is at 26 Blair Street, Te Aro, in central Wellington, near the corner of Courtenay Place and Blair Street. It’s in the heart of the Courtenay/Cuba entertainment district, on the same street as a few cafes and next to the historic Embassy Theatre. The easiest landmark is Courtenay Place: if you’re on Courtenay, just head one block down Blair Street and you’ll see its entrance.
What transport options are there to get to Red Square?
There are many buses that stop near Courtenay Place and Blair Street (Wellington bus routes 1, 2, 23, 24, 83 are among them). Just get off at the Courtenay/Blair stop. If you take train, Wellington Railway Station is about a 10-minute walk away. After late-night shows, rideshare or taxis are popular – drop-offs can be done on Blair Street or Courtenay Place. There’s limited street parking on Blair itself, so most people use nearby paid car parks (on Lombard or Willis streets) or public transport.
Is there parking available near Red Square Bar?
On-street parking on Blair Street is very scarce. The nearest public car parks are a short walk away. For example, the Lombard Street car park (about 2 minutes on foot) charges roughly NZ$1.20 for 2 hours, and the Lower Willis St/Lombard complex (3 minutes away) is about NZ$1.60 for 2 hours. There are also paid parking buildings on nearby streets (Manners, Bond, etc.). Overnight street parking is not recommended due to time limits; if you must drive, use a secure city lot.
Are there seats at Red Square or is it all standing?
Red Square is mostly a standing/dance venue. The main floor is an open dance area in front of the DJ booth. There are a few lounge booths and bar stools along the edges of the club for small groups, as well as VIP tables on an elevated area, but these are usually reserved or bottle-service sections. In general, expect to stand and move around. If you prefer a seat, head to the lounge area downstairs (Ponderosa) or arrive early to grab a bar stool.
Where’s the best place to stand for the music and DJ?
The centre front of the dancefloor (near the DJ booth) usually has the most direct sound and energy. That said, because the club is small enough, the side areas and anywhere on the main floor still have good sound coverage. If the crowd is packed, even farther back will do. VIP table areas on the sides allow you to watch from above with some distance. Just avoid standing too far off to one side of the stage where the speakers might be quieter. In short: centre floor is ideal, but anywhere in the busy centre keeps you in the mix.
Is there a dress code at Red Square Bar?
Red Square expects a smart-casual to fashionable club dress code. Most people dress up a bit – nice jeans or trousers with a fashionable top or shirt are common. Sportswear, beachwear, or overly casual attire (torn shorts, singlets, flip-flops) might not be allowed. In short, think “stylish nightclub” rather than gym gear. It’s often described as attracting a “label-clad” crowd, so tidy and trendy outfits are safest. If in doubt, upscale casual is better than too relaxed.
What is the age limit for entry?
Red Square Bar is strictly for people 18 and over. You will need a valid photo ID (passport or New Zealand driver’s licence is preferred) to prove your age when you arrive. The club enforces the legal drinking age, so even if you’re with friends, under-18s cannot enter. All special events follow this rule. Keep your ID handy – it's checked at the door and sometimes again inside.
Are cameras or phones allowed inside?
It’s generally fine to take casual photos or use your phone, but professional cameras or large tripods are not permitted. As with most nightclubs, flash photography is discouraged (for safety and ambience) and the focus staff prefer people enjoying the party. If you do use your phone, just be mindful of not shining bright lights at others. In summary: camera phones and social pics are OK, but any big photo/video rig usually won’t be allowed.
Does Red Square Bar have wheelchair access?
Unfortunately, Red Square Bar’s venue layout makes full accessibility difficult. The dance area is on the upper level, and there is no elevator for wheelchair users. The downstairs lounge (Ponderosa) is on the ground floor and is reachable, but to access the main club level you must climb stairs. The entrance itself is a step-free sidewalk entry, though once inside the two floors are connected by steps. If accessibility is a concern, it’s best to contact the venue ahead of time to discuss accommodations.
Does Red Square Bar have food or snacks available?
Red Square is primarily a bar, so there’s no full kitchen for meals. You can order drinks and some cocktail-style snacks (like nuts or small bites) at the bar, but don’t expect a restaurant menu. It’s a good idea to eat beforehand (nearby restaurants on Courtenay Place are plentiful). If you need a last-minute bite, there may be fast-nosh options just before entering or food carts in the area, but on-site offerings are minimal and aimed at quick bar service rather than dining.
Is there Wi-Fi or phone signal inside the club?
Wi-Fi is not commonly offered as a public service at Red Square Bar, so don’t rely on free internet inside. Phone signal can be spotty near and on the dancefloor, especially with many people using data. If you need data or messaging, the safest bet is to do it before you fully enter or use the lounge area downstairs near the bar. Bottom line: assume limited connectivity – plan any meeting spots or travel plans ahead of time outside the club.
Is there a cloakroom or coat check?
Yes, Red Square Bar typically provides a cloakroom/coat check at the entrance. For a small fee (usually a few dollars New Zealand), you can leave jackets or bags with the staff as you dance. Bags and items kept here are looked after by the club. Remember to keep your ticket or claim tag so you can pick up your belongings later. If you have a wallet or valuables, it’s safer to carry those on you or use inner pockets.
