About Shed 6
Shed 6 is a landmark waterfront venue on Wellington’s historic Queen’s Wharf. Originally a turn-of-the-century port shed, it was converted into a multi-purpose events space in 2013 when the old Town Hall closed for seismic strengthening (www.ausleisure.com.au ) (www.ausleisure.com.au ). The exterior still looks like the weathered timber-and-steel warehouse it once was, but inside is a modern acoustically treated hall. Designed by architect Roger Shand of Shand Shelton, the building is extremely flexible: retractable walls can split the hall into four separate rooms, and a motorised grandstand seating system rolls out for concert seating (www.ausleisure.com.au ) (nzvenues.co.nz ). This means it can handle everything from a banquet or trade show to a full concert – using the entire 740m² space to accommodate well over 1,000 people standing or several hundred seated (www.ausleisure.com.au ) (nzvenues.co.nz ). WellingtonNZ (formerly Venues Wellington) manages Shed 6, complementing the adjacent TSB Arena. Signature features include its pillar-less open floor, the light-filled two-storey arcade link (the old “Plimmer’s Ark” space) to the Arena, and its panoramic harbour views. In short, it blends historic character with top-notch event functionality.
Events and Programming
Shed 6 hosts a very wide range of events year-round. It’s used for live music (rock, pop, hip-hop, electronic, jazz and more) as well as comedy shows, dance parties and DJ nights. For example, New Zealand bands like Shihad have played anniversary tours there, and even international hip-hop star Ty Dolla $ign performed a sold-out concert in 2017 (willnotfade.com ). The venue also regularly stages conferences, exhibitions and corporate events – its four-room layout is ideal for trade shows or business breakout sessions. Weddings, banquet dinners and community gatherings are common too. According to WellingtonNZ, over 150 events were booked for Shed 6 and the TSB Arena in the first two years after opening (www.ausleisure.com.au ), a sign of its popularity. Typical program schedules dozens of events annually, from afternoon conventions to evening shows. Tickets vary by event: a local band gig might be $20–40, whereas a headline act could be $70–120 (or VIP packages higher). Free or low-cost community events and student functions also take place. In every case, the building is set up to suit the occasion – theatre seating for lectures, banquet layout for dinners, or a big open dance floor with standing room for concerts.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Shed 6 events are sold through official outlets (often online) and at the venue. The Shed 6 Box Office is located on site (check which entrance is used for the show) and opens about two hours before performance time (www.ticketmaster.co.nz ). If an event isn’t sold out, a limited number of tickets may be available on the night at the door or box office. However, popular shows do sell out, so it’s wise to book early. For major concerts and festivals, tickets often go on sale several months in advance — subscribe to venue or promoter newsletters to get presale codes or fan club offers. Pricing varies by event and seating type. There are usually multiple ticket tiers (general admission standing, seated tickets, and sometimes VIP or meet-and-greet packages). All ticketing is digital or print-at-home; simply have your QR code or e-ticket ready on your phone for scanning. Avoid unofficial sellers to ensure valid tickets. In general, a strategy of “buy early online; box office if needed” works best. Note: bring your photo ID if you choose to buy and pick up tickets in person or if the event is 18+.
Seating and Layout
The interior of Shed 6 is one large, pillar-less hall (740m² when fully open), which can be sectioned off if needed (www.ausleisure.com.au ) (nzvenues.co.nz ). In full-hall mode, a temporary stage is set up at one end and a retractable grandstand extends from a large side-wall for theatre-style seating. In this theatre layout, up to about 965–1,400 seats can be configured (the exact number depends on stage size) (nzvenues.co.nz ) (nzvenues.co.nz ). Otherwise, the main floor is flat and used for general admission standing, banquets or classroom rows of chairs. Best viewing depends on the event: for seated shows, mid-row central seats or those at the back of the stands give a balanced view of the stage and sound mix. For standing gigs, arriving early to claim a spot near the front of the stage ensures an immersive experience, but keep in mind the PA speakers there can be very loud. Some concert-goers prefer to stand further back or off to the side where one can see and hear well without the full volume blast. Because the hall is wide and open, even side or rear areas have decent sightlines – there are no obstructing columns. One review noted that Shed 6 “didn’t seem to suffer from the terrible acoustics” of the neighbouring larger arena (willnotfade.com ); in practice, sound engineers report it has good clarity. As a rule, avoid standing directly under or behind a speaker stack (where sound is booming) and avoid the very front row of fixed seats (which can strain the neck). Otherwise, any location works fine. VIP or PR areas (if used) are often on a raised platform at the rear. Note that there is no public balcony — the only high-level gantry is for lighting & sound crew.
Getting There and Parking
Shed 6 is at 4 Queen’s Wharf, right on Wellington’s waterfront (beside the TSB Arena). From the CBD it’s easy to find: walk along Lambton Quay past the Civic Centre, continue onto Cable Street and then Jervois Quay; the wharf juts out by Frank Kitts Park. Wellington’s transport is compact, so many people walk. The main mayoral bus routes run along Customhouse Quay and stop about a block from the venue. Wellington Railway Station is roughly a 10–15 minute walk (about 1 km) away – exit the station onto Bunny Street, head up Lambton Quay then turn onto Cable Street toward the wharf. Citylink (free buses) and Metlink services connect the town with suburbs; ask locals or online maps for the nearest stop to “Queen’s Wharf/TSB Arena.” If driving, allow extra time. There is no free valet lot, but metered street parking can sometimes be found on the wharf after hours. The largest nearby car park is the Queens Wharf underground parking (entry via Jervois Quay), operated by Wilson Parking; casual rate is around $6 per hour (www.ticketmaster.co.nz ). (This car park has a 2.0m height clearance.) Other Wilson lots in the vicinity include Grey Street and the waterfront’s multi-storey on-site park; plus general CBD carparks along Lambton Quay a few blocks back. Dedicated disability parking bays are available in the adjacent lots (permit holders only). Rideshare and taxis can drop off on Cable Street or by the waterfront walkway. The venue is also fully accessible by foot and bike – Cue bikeshare has racks nearby. Wellington Airport is about 7 km (15 minutes by taxi) from Shed 6.
Inside the Venue
When you enter Shed 6 you’ll experience an industrial-chic hall with high ceilings, exposed wooden beams and long floor space. Entry is typically at ground level through the arcade glass links near TSB Arena, or a side lobby. Expect to show your ticket (print or mobile) and pass through a security check (metal-detectors and bag search are routine at concerts and large events). If the event sells concessions, there will usually be a bar or two serving beer, wine, cider and soft drinks; food offerings vary by event (snacks or food-trucks/small vendors are common at concerts). At conference events there may be café-style refreshments laid out. Bringing in outside food/drink (other than bottled water) is generally not allowed. There is a counter/till near the foyer for purchasing event merchandise, programs or photo ops if applicable. Free water fountains are available. Indoor smoking is prohibited (New Zealand law), but a designated smoking area is set up outside by the entrance during intermissions. Restrooms (toilets) are located just off the main hall – there are separate men’s, women’s and accessible toilets with baby-change. Coat checks or luggage storage is provided at many events; staff can advise if you need to leave a bag. The venue is indoors so shows continue unaffected by weather; the hall can get chilly when empty but heating is usually turned up for events. Ambient lighting is dim during performances; at cocktail events it’s bright and airy thanks to the arcade’s windows. Personal mobile reception is generally good inside. (Rarely, if the crowd is huge your 4G might lag, so plan accordingly.) Wi-Fi is not guaranteed for the public, so arrange internet if needed ahead of time.
Importantly for patrons with disabilities: Shed 6 is wheelchair-friendly. There is ramp access to the ground floor and wide doorways (www.ticketmaster.co.nz ). Guide dogs are welcome. Wheelchair seating is on the flat floor, and specific accessible seats are reserved as needed per event (www.ticketmaster.co.nz ). If you require assistance, venue staff and ushers are on hand. For visually impaired guests, the venue staff can provide orientation help. (There are ramps inside and no raised steps except at the very front of the stage.) If in doubt, ask the host about any special needs – the venue is accommodating by NZ standards.
Nearby Amenities
Shed 6 is in a prime location, with plenty to do before and after a show. Directly on the wharf are a few iconic spots: most notably the Shed 5 Restaurant & Bar at 2 Jervois Quay (next to TSB Arena) serves hearty meals and local craft beers, and its sister pub/“bottle-o” (Bad Grannies Bottle Store) is great for grabbing a six-pack. A short walk east along the waterfront road brings you to Te Papa (the National Museum) with its café and restaurants. Walk inland one block to Lambton Quay and you’ll find dozens of eateries and coffee spots – for example, Customs Brew Bar (kai and burgers), Herald on Kent (plated Kiwi cuisine) or Hatch (casual burgers). Nearby hotels (within 5–10 minute walk) include Rydges Wellington, James Cook Hotel, Novotel Wellington and the InterContinental; each has bars/restaurants if you prefer fine dining. If you arrive early for a night show, arriving 30–45 minutes ahead is a good rule so you can park (or find buses), buy tickets, and enjoy a drink.
After the event, public transport in Wellington stops around midnight. Late-night buses from the central hub (Lambton Quay) should still be available if you hurry. Otherwise taxi and rideshare (Uber) services are reliable, with pick-up usually on Cable Street. Wellington Station (for trains) closes after the last midnight service. The waterfront and CBD are brightly lit and patrolled by security cameras, but as always keep your valuables safe and stay in main walkways if it’s late.
What Makes This Venue Special
Shed 6 is beloved by locals and artists for its unique character. Unlike generic halls, it wears its history on its sleeve – the weathered exterior recalls Wellington’s maritime past, and the interior still feels like a warehouse. This mix of heritage and modernity appeals to creative events; big art installations or lighting displays look dramatic against the old timber walls. The venue’s size (roughly the same as the Town Hall) is just right: it’s big enough to host well-known touring acts, yet small enough that performances feel intimate. Many Wellingtonians know that it was built in record time (92 days) to save the city’s event calendar when the Town Hall was closed (www.ausleisure.com.au ). Originally meant to be temporary, Shed 6 has stuck around due to high demand. Inside, the sound quality is surprisingly good – one reviewer noted it did “not suffer from” the poor acoustics of nearby arenas (willnotfade.com ). In summer the waterfront location adds to the charm: you can catch a sunset through the doors or enjoy a harbour breeze during an open-air concurrent event. Artists appreciate the professional lighting and rigging (the venue has plenty of truss points and touring-grade PA), so technically the venue punches above its class. All in all, Shed 6’s blend of industrial-chic vibe, heritage roots and flexible design give it a personality. In Wellington’s lively arts scene, it holds a special place as a versatile waterfront stage — it’s the kind of place where a rock gig might spill out into the street or a conference could enjoy a surprise harbour break.
Visitor Tips and Information
Plan to dress comfortably and casually for most events – jeans and a tee or smart-casual attire is fine. If you’ll be standing on the hall floor, wear sturdy shoes since the concrete floor can get tiring. Check the event info for any age restrictions: many gigs are all-ages (kids welcome), but 18+ shows (with alcohol) require ID. Bring earplugs to protect your hearing at loud concerts. Flash photography and professional cameras are usually not allowed unless the performer has a media pass. Small point-and-shoot cameras or phone photos without flash are almost always okay, but do confirm on the ticket or event page. Don’t bring large bags or weapons – most events have a quick security screening at the door. A clear plastic bag for essentials (wallet, sunscreen in summer, etc.) can speed entry.
For accessibility, tell the box office in advance if you need wheelchair assistance or a carer companion ticket (www.ticketmaster.co.nz ). When you arrive, ushers can help guide to accessible seating. The venue is generous with disability access: ramps and toilets are provided. If you need to charge your phone, bring a portable battery pack – power outlets are not provided for guests. Before a show, arriving 30–45 minutes early lets you avoid long lines for bars or restrooms, and gives you time to find a good spot if it’s general admission. Keep in mind Wellington often has fresh breezes even in summer, so a light jacket is useful. Finally, respect local customs: applause at the end of a set is appropriate, keep walkways clear and rubbish in bins. Read the event’s “do not bring” list (often on the ticketing site) – common no-nos include laser pointers, fireworks, glass containers or unsealed drinks. If you have questions on the day, venue staff at the entry and info desk are very helpful. Enjoy the harbor views and unique atmosphere – real locals often say Shed 6 nights are fun, relaxed and friendly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of Shed 6?
The full hall can accommodate roughly 1,000–1,400 people depending on seating arrangement. In theatre-style the retractable seats fit about 900–1,000. As a standing/concert floor it holds over 1,000. With banquet or classroom setup the capacity is a few hundred. When the venue is divided into four rooms, each room holds up to 100–365 people (Room 1 seats ~365). (nzvenues.co.nz ) (nzvenues.co.nz )
Where do I buy tickets for events at Shed 6?
Tickets are sold through the event’s official seller (often major ticketing websites) or the Shed 6 box office. Check the event listing on the WellingtonNZ or promoter website for details. Popular shows may have presales (fan clubs or credit card promotions), so sign up for mailers in advance. Day-of-show, you can sometimes buy remaining seats at the box office (which opens ~2 hours before the event) (www.ticketmaster.co.nz ). Always use official sellers to avoid scams.
How do I get to Shed 6 by public transport?
Wellington is very walkable, but several buses serve the waterfront. Major bus lines along the Golden Mile (Lambton Quay/Courtenay Place) stop near Frank Kitts Park or Lambton Terminal. Ask for stops like “Queen’s Wharf” or “Jervois Quay/Te Papa.” The city’s free Link bus may drop you at Frank Kitts Park, a 2-minute walk from Shed 6. From Wellington Railway Station, it’s about a 10–15 minute walk (down Lambton Quay, then turn onto Cable/Lambton Quay into the CBD). If dropped by taxi or rideshare, tell the driver “Queen’s Wharf” next to TSB Arena.
Where can I park if I drive to Shed 6?
There is no dedicated free lot for Shed 6. The nearest parking is the Queens Wharf multi-storey (Wilson Parking, 1 Jervois Quay) or nearby city lots. Casual rates start around $6/hour there (www.ticketmaster.co.nz ). On-street timed parking runs along Jervois Quay and nearby streets, but those spaces fill up. Lots at Grey Street or Lambton Quay (5–10 minutes’ walk) are alternatives. Disabled permit holders can use marked bays near the venue. Plan ahead and arrive early for parking.
What are the best seats or spots for concerts at Shed 6?
For seated shows, aim for center seats a few rows back in the retractable grandstand – these give a clear, balanced view and sound. Front rows are very near the stage (good view but neck strain). For standing concerts, fans often pack near the stage for atmosphere, but that area is loud. If you prefer a milder spot, standing mid-hall or a bit to the sides can be ideal (you can still see well and sound is slightly softer). There are no obstructed seats – the hall is wide and open (willnotfade.com ). If you need wheelchair access, inform the box office; accessible spots are usually at floor level at the back or side, per event (www.ticketmaster.co.nz ).
Is Shed 6 indoor or outdoor?
Shed 6 is an indoor venue. The hall is fully covered and climate-controlled during events, so rain or shine, the program goes on. Despite being on the waterfront, you are inside the historic shed structure. Doors and windows can be opened for ventilation on mild days, but events are not weather-dependent.
Is Shed 6 wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Shed 6 has ramp access to the ground floor and an internal ramp to reach the event floor (www.ticketmaster.co.nz ). There are accessible toilets available. Wheelchair seating is available on request, though specific seats vary by event (check with the organiser or box office). Guide dogs are permitted. Just contact the venue or promoter ahead of time to reserve any required accommodations.
What items are banned at Shed 6?
Like most NZ venues, Shed 6 prohibits weapons, illegal drugs, unsealed drinks and outside food. No firearms, knives, or similar items are allowed. A quick bag check is performed at entry. Smoke, fire or CO2 canisters, laser pointers and fireworks are banned. Large professional cameras or video cameras require prior approval – phone cameras with no flash are usually fine. You may bring bottled water (in plastic) inside. If unsure, check the event’s specific “prohibited items” policy online.
When should I arrive for a show at Shed 6?
Doors typically open 45 minutes to 1 hour before a show (exact time on your ticket). The box office staff recommend arriving at least 30 minutes early, especially if it’s general admission – this gives you time to queue, check coats and use the restroom before the event. Popular concerts may have longer lines, so plan accordingly. Evening events often start around 7:30–8:00pm; early arrivals can grab printed schedules or merchandise.
What nearby food and drink options are there?
You’ll be spoiled for choice. On the wharf itself is the Shed 5 Restaurant & Bar (pub food and craft beer) and cafes at Te Papa a couple of minutes away. A short walk inland on Lambton Quay and Courtenay Place offers dozens of cafes, takeaways and restaurants (from burgers and sushi to fine dining). The Cable Car’s base (outside Ohiro Rd) has coffee shops, and the InterContinental and Rydges hotels have bars/restaurants a 5-minute stroll off Queens Wharf. If you plan a meal, consider stopping an hour before showtime to avoid rush.
Is there a coat check or lockers at the venue?
Most large events at Shed 6 provide a cloakroom/coats check area (often free) near the entrance. Staff will hang your coat and return your ticket tag on exit. There are no personal lockers, so avoid bringing large luggage. For conferences or banquets, belongings are usually kept with your table or seat until end of event.
Can I re-enter the venue if I leave?
Re-entry is allowed for most seated or reserved events: keep your ticket and ask security to let you back in. However, for all ages music concerts, venues often use wristbands: you’ll receive a wristband when you first enter (after scanning your ticket). As long as it’s intact, you can step out and return. If you lose your wristband or ticket, you may be refused entry. Check the event page if multiple entries are permitted.
Are there any age restrictions at Shed 6?
Age restrictions depend on the specific event. Some shows are all-ages (with minors allowed), while others are 18+ if alcohol is sold. The age rule will be clearly stated on tickets or promotional materials. If under 18 is not allowed, no exceptions (the venue will ask for ID). Otherwise children must be accompanied by adults. Note: even at all-ages shows, anyone under 18 must follow the responsible person’s rules and can’t smoke or drink.
Is photography or videography allowed during shows?
Policy varies by performance. In general, simple phone photos without flash are usually permitted. Professional cameras or audio/video recording gear typically require prior permission from the artist or promoter and may be seized at the door if unauthorized. Always assume no flash photography during concerts. For filming interviews or formal press, contact the show’s press office before the event.
