About The Hub, Victoria University
The Hub is a striking, multi-level events space at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University’s Kelburn campus. It opened in March 2013 (www.ticketfairy.com ), replacing the old open-air “Quad”. Designed by Athfield Architects (with Architectus) as a modern “agora” (www.ticketfairy.com ), it unites the surrounding library and halls under one translucent roof. The building feels airy, with plenty of glass and a geodesic canopy, and even its concrete support columns glow from internal lighting after dark (www.ticketfairy.com ). Notably, each 6×4 m sliding glass wall (reportedly the largest in the Southern Hemisphere) can open onto the courtyard (www.ticketfairy.com ), blurring inside and out on fine days. All told, The Hub spans about 4,260 m² and can accommodate several hundred people at once (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Architects have praised it as “one of the finest spaces in the city” (www.ticketfairy.com ), and university leaders call it the vibrant new heart or “anchor” of the Kelburn campus (www.ticketfairy.com ). (Historically, the site was once a windswept concrete plaza disliked by students (www.ticketfairy.com ), so the Hub’s sheltered, pergola-like design was a major improvement.) In practice The Hub serves as a casual “living room” for campus life, with lounge seating and study nooks alongside its performance area (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Events and Programming
The Hub hosts an enormous variety of campus events. Student clubs and the university regularly hold concerts, cultural celebrations, ceremonies and expos in its main hall (www.ticketfairy.com ). For example, VUWSA (the student union) runs annual O-Week concerts and themed parties (in one recent year a five-night series featured DJs and even acts like Peking Duk (www.vuwsa.org.nz )). It also stages all-ages cultural festivals – notably Wellington’s Thai community holds the Loy Krathong festival there each year, with food stalls, dance performances and lantern craft activities (www.ticketfairy.com ). Throughout the year you might see classical recitals, student band nights, Māori kapa haka showcases, comedy shows or even topical debates (www.ticketfairy.com ). The Hub is also used informally for fairs and exhibitions (club fairs, career expos, markets, or honors ceremonies often take place there) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Because it is the university’s main indoor gathering space, it’s nearly always booked for large student or community events. Most Hub events are free or very low-cost for attendees – for instance the Thai festival is advertised as “free admission” (www.ticketfairy.com ) – and paid gigs typically charge only a few NZ dollars (often NZ$5–$20 for students) (www.ticketfairy.com ). In short, if it’s a big on-campus event – from academic lectures and film screenings to markets or music nights – it often ends up at The Hub (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Tickets and Booking
The Hub has no dedicated box office; instead each event’s organizer handles tickets. Many Hub events (especially student-run fairs or festivals) are simply free to attend (www.ticketfairy.com ). For carded events,Tickets are usually sold online via the Victoria University or VUWSA (student union) websites, or by emailing the organizer (www.ticketfairy.com ). Often you can also buy at the door on the night if space remains. Ticket prices are generally modest – for example, student concerts may charge around NZ$5–$10 (www.ticketfairy.com ) – since most shows aim to be affordable. Popular performances can sell out, so it’s wise to keep an eye on the university’s events calendar and VUWSA announcements for on-sale dates (www.ticketfairy.com ). If tickets are limited, plan to buy early. For door-sale events, arrive 30–60 minutes before start time to join the queue (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Seating and Layout
The Hub’s main hall is essentially one big open room with movable furniture (www.ticketfairy.com ). There are no fixed theatre seats – just a polished floor and scattered benches or tables that can be re-arranged (www.ticketfairy.com ). When a stage show is set up, organizers will typically provide portable folding chairs or a platform at one end; otherwise everyone stands or sits on the floor. Sight-lines in this hall are very good everywhere. For standing concerts, the best places are usually toward the centre of the crowd, but even the back of the hall has a clear view of the stage and sound carries well (www.ticketfairy.com ). The Hub has no VIP area or reserved seating sections (www.ticketfairy.com ) – it’s all general admission. For seating, attendees often bring small folding stools or cushions (since only temporary seating is provided) (www.ticketfairy.com ). A special feature: The Hub’s massive front glass walls can slide open. In fine weather both 6×4 m doors on the courtyard side retract, effectively extending the audience area outside (www.ticketfairy.com ). On a rainy or cold day those walls stay shut and the space is fully enclosed. If the doors are open, you might choose to perch on one of the wooden benches along the side walls for a slightly quieter spot (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Getting There and Parking
The Hub is located on Kelburn Parade at Victoria University’s Kelburn Campus (Wellington 6012) (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). The front entrance is on the Level 0/Easterfield building side of campus (www.vuwsa.org.nz ). From downtown Wellington you can reach Kelburn easily by public transport. The famous Wellington Cable Car is a handy option – a five-minute ride up takes you near the campus top station. From there it’s about a 5-10 minute walk along Kelburn Parade to The Hub’s doors (www.ticketfairy.com ). Several Metlink buses also climb Kelburn Parade (for example Route 22 from Lambton Quay) (www.ticketfairy.com ). These buses stop at Kelburn Village or outside Seton Hall; from there it’s a short walk with signage to campus. Use a Snapper card or single fare on the bus. Rideshare or taxi drop-offs are permitted at the campus gates on Kelburn Parade or Hunter Street (www.ticketfairy.com ). Driving onto campus is tricky. There is a small paid lot off Waiteata Road (search “Kelburn Campus” in the ParkMate app) – it charges roughly NZ$3 per hour (up to about $11/day) (www.wgtn.ac.nz ). Only a couple of 2-hour visitor spaces exist on campus (www.ticketfairy.com ), and off-street parking is scarce. Bellies and driveways on Kelburn streets have just a few short-term metered spots (coins or phone payment) (www.ticketfairy.com ), and residents’ permit zones cover much of the hill. In practice most people recommend using the cable car or bus to avoid the parking headache (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you do drive, leave extra time to find a spot, and note that campus gates may be locked after hours (check campus signage if leaving overnight) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Inside the Venue
Expect The Hub interior to be bright and open. The main hall boasts a high geodesic roof with glass areas, so even in Wellington’s winter the space is full of light (www.ticketfairy.com ). There are two main entrances: one on Kelburn Parade (next to the Hunter Courtyard/Student Union), and another covered walkway from the Rankine Brown Library (www.ticketfairy.com ). For events, stewards or volunteer staff stand at the doors to check e-tickets or IDs before entry (www.ticketfairy.com ). Inside, you’ll find plenty of informal seating – mobile benches and tables that you can rearrange to chat or work before the show (www.ticketfairy.com ). It’s not a formal theatre; people often mill around or find a spot on the mezzanine level. The vibe is very relaxed and tame – imagine a student lounge. Bring only small personal items, as there’s no official coatroom and large bags may be subject to a quick check (www.ticketfairy.com ).
The Hub is equipped with useful amenities. A café counter called The Lab (open during daytime) and a Vietnamese snack bar (Nam D) are on-site (www.ticketfairy.com ). They serve coffee, sandwiches and light meals up until late afternoon. (Alternatively, there are university vending machines and water fountains in the building.) Restrooms – including wheelchair-accessible toilets – are located one level up via ramps or elevators (www.ticketfairy.com ). Free Wi-Fi (Eduroam or a guest network) covers the venue (www.ticketfairy.com ), and mobile reception is good throughout. If you need power, outlets are available at many of the benches and tables. The Hub was built for universal access: all entrances are flat or ramped, and elevators connect the ground floor, mezzanine and top level (www.ticketfairy.com ). Wheelchairs or strollers can reach every area, and designated wheelchair seating spaces are provided. The student union or event staff will happily assist visitors with accessibility needs (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Other practical notes: Security on site is generally low-key. The campus tends to feel safe and friendly, though guards or volunteers may patrol larger events. Bag searches are uncommon, but on crowded nights an especially large backpack might be checked at the door (www.ticketfairy.com ). No smoking or vaping is allowed anywhere inside – if you must smoke you’ll need to step outside to the designated area by the building’s entrance (www.ticketfairy.com ). Personal photography is fine (just make sure to disable flash during performances) (www.ticketfairy.com ), but recording or professional camera gear requires permission. Feel free to bring a water bottle or small snacks; the only restriction is alcoholic drinks – outside alcohol is prohibited at The Hub events (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Nearby Amenities
There are several dining options on or near Kelburn Campus. Right inside The Hub grounds you have The Lab and Nam D as mentioned. Nearby on Kelburn Parade (a few minutes’ walk) is the Student Union building’s Hunter Lounge, which offers full café meals (including vegetarian fare) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Just down the corridor in the Easterfield and Rankine Brown buildings is a Subway sandwich shop and a few snack kiosks (www.ticketfairy.com ). For a sit-down meal or drink further afield, head downhill to Kelburn Village: about a 5–10 minute walk from campus will bring you to the Kelburn Village Pub and a couple of cafés serving pub fare and brews (www.ticketfairy.com ). Also, the historic Cable Car terminal (uphill from campus) has cafés like the “Cable Top Eatery” – great for a coffee or dinner with a view (www.ticketfairy.com ).
As for nightlife: the Kelburn area itself is quiet after hours. The Kelburn Village Pub sometimes stays open late on event nights (www.ticketfairy.com ), but if you’re looking for more busy bars and live music you’ll want to walk down to central Wellington (Courtenay Place) or Thorndon, which is an easy downhill stroll or short bus ride from campus (www.ticketfairy.com ). Keep in mind Wellington’s last cable car back to the city departs before midnight and many buses end around 10 pm (www.ticketfairy.com ). If your show ends very late, plan on using a taxi or rideshare, or double-check the timetable for the last buses up Elizabeth/Kelburn Streets. Kelburn’s streets are quite steep and can be dark at night, so stick to well-lit paths when heading home (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Accommodation: there are no lodging options on Kelburn campus. If you need a hotel, the closest choices are in central Wellington or Thorndon down the hill (www.ticketfairy.com ). Many hotels line Lambton Quay or Willis Street (about 2 km down, ~10-15 minute drive). A taxi or bus ride from Kelburn to the city center takes under 15 minutes (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Before an event: plan to arrive early. For ticketed shows, doors often open 30–60 minutes before the advertised start time (www.ticketfairy.com ). It’s helpful to get there early enough to find a seat or table, and maybe grab a drink at The Lab. (If an event is unrestricted, you can wander in any time during Hub hours, though it’s still wise to double-check the event schedule so you don’t miss something.)
What Makes This Venue Special
The Hub isn’t just another campus lecture space – it’s become a symbol of Victoria University’s modern identity (www.ticketfairy.com ). It essentially solved a decades-old problem of an uncaring courtyard: as one longtime staff member put it, the old “Quad” was little more than “pigeon poop and cigarette butts” (www.ticketfairy.com ). The new Hub transformed that bleak space into a bright, sheltered plaza with clear views of sky (www.ticketfairy.com ). Its very name and design draw on the concept of an ancient Greek “agora” (www.ticketfairy.com ), intending it as a democratic meeting place. In practice it has indeed become a flexible public square where protests, art exhibits, club stalls and parties all mingle. Students have embraced it – for instance orientation lantern marches often loop through its courtyard and many say O-Week events begin or end there (www.ticketfairy.com ). As one university official reflected, The Hub “has become fundamental to the University’s identity” – without it the Wellington campus “would be a totally different experience” (www.ticketfairy.com ).
In the wider city scene, The Hub’s distinctive architecture and central location make it a natural magnet. Pop-up music nights, art installations and even community fairs have been held in the Hub’s space (www.ticketfairy.com ), taking advantage of its open-air courtyard and in-built sound system. Performers appreciate that it feels intimate yet still supports a full professional setup. And at night The Hub really stands out – its internal glow (from the translucent roof panels) lights up the Kelburn skyline like a lantern (www.ticketfairy.com ). Its giant sliding walls and cantilevered roof have even earned mentions in official speeches (www.ticketfairy.com ). All these features give The Hub character far beyond a typical hall; it feels like a community landmark at the heart of campus life (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Hub was built to modern standards. All entrances are level or ramped and there are elevators to every floor (www.ticketfairy.com ). Wheelchair seating spaces are available for events, and staff are happy to help if you need assistance. Restroom facilities on each level include accessible stalls (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you need extra aid (like a sign-language interpreter or personal assistant), contact the university student services in advance to arrange it.
What to bring: Wellington weather can be changeable. Even under the roof it can get breezy, so dress in layers (www.ticketfairy.com ). If rain is forecast, consider an umbrella or raincoat (you’ll likely have to walk between campus buildings). The Hub has very limited permanent seating, so if you prefer to sit, something like a small folding stool or cushion can be handy (www.ticketfairy.com ). You can bring bottled water or light snacks if you like. Remember to carry your ID – many evening shows (especially 18+ club nights) require proof of age (www.ticketfairy.com ). Cameras (point-and-shoot or phone) are fine for personal use – just turn off the flash during performances (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Avoid bringing large backpacks when possible; on busy nights big bags might be searched or asked to be stowed away (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Arrival and doors: For ticketed events, arrive at least 15–30 minutes before start time (www.ticketfairy.com ). The foyer fills up fast, and arriving early gives you time to buy a drink or find a good spot in the hall. (If it’s just an open house or free event, you can arrive any time during Hub hours, but do check the schedule so you aren’t too early or late.) Note after-hours, the building entrance locks to non-event traffic – so for nightly events plan to come after 6 pm when doors open. For big shows, security may scan or tear tickets and also check coats/bags at the entrance (www.ticketfairy.com ). Most organizers accept a photo ticket on your phone, but keep it handy when you arrive.
Age & attire: The venue itself has no age limit – it’s a general academic building – but individual events may. Many daytime fairs and talks welcome all ages, whereas many nighttime gigs or VUWSA club parties are 18+ (some allow 16+) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Always check the event listing for any age rule. There’s no formal dress code at The Hub; most people dress casually (jeans, T-shirts, jumpers). Baseball caps or graphic tees are fine – just be respectful if the event has any guidelines or theming. Footwear and layers are important, especially on the hill – comfortable shoes are wise because Kelburn is steep and windy.
Food & drink: The Hub itself has a café counter (The Lab) and a food stall (Nam D) on-site (www.ticketfairy.com ), which serve coffee, sandwiches and snacks during daytime events. Outside food (like wrapped snacks or sandwiches) is allowed inside, but outside alcohol is forbidden (www.ticketfairy.com ). If your event has a bar, drink prices are typically student-friendly. There’s no formal cloakroom or coat check, but you’ll often see coat racks or hanging rails to stash outerwear. Plan to keep personal belongings with you at your table or under your seat.
Do I need to buy tickets for Hub events, and where?
It depends on the event. Many Hub activities (like cultural fairs or student club nights) are free, but larger concerts usually require a ticket. There’s no onsite box office – organizers (the uni or student association) handle ticket sales, usually via online forms or at the door. Watch the Victoria University events page or VUWSA site for links to buy tickets (www.ticketfairy.com ).
How much do Hub concert tickets cost?
Ticket prices are typically very reasonable. Student-run gigs often charge only a few NZ dollars – for example around NZ$5–$20 per person (www.ticketfairy.com ). Many student events are free, especially open cultural festivals. If a show requires payment, prices are almost always modest to keep it accessible.
What is the seating arrangement at The Hub?
The Hub has an open-plan hall with no fixed seats (www.ticketfairy.com ). For concerts or talks, fold-up chairs may be set up at one side, but otherwise people stand or sit on movable benches. Sight-lines are excellent from anywhere – being near centre-front gives the clearest view and sound, but even the back of the hall sees the stage well (www.ticketfairy.com ). There are no reserved or VIP sections (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you like to sit, bringing a small stool or cushion can be useful, since seating is only temporary (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Is The Hub fully indoor or partly open-air?
The Hub is a fully covered building, so events aren’t exposed to weather. However, its front wall consists of two giant sliding glass doors (each 6×4 m) that can open onto the courtyard (www.ticketfairy.com ). On warm days these doors may be opened to let in fresh air and extend the audience into the outdoor space. On cold or rainy days they stay closed and the hall is fully sheltered.
Where exactly is The Hub located?
The Hub’s address is Kelburn Parade, Kelburn Campus, Victoria University (Wellington 6012) (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). It sits between the Easterfield and Cotton buildings. The main events entrance is on Kelburn Parade (Level 0 of the Easterfield building) (www.vuwsa.org.nz ). If coming from town, the Wellington Cable Car drops you at Kelburn Terrace – from there walk up Kelburn Parade about 5 minutes. Metlink buses (e.g. Route 22) also run up Kelburn Parade by Lambton Quay (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Is parking available at or near The Hub?
On-campus parking is very limited. There is a small pay carpark off Waiteata Road (search “Kelburn Campus” in ParkMate) charging about NZ$3/hour (capped ~NZ$11/day) (www.wgtn.ac.nz ). Only two short-term (2-hour) visitor spots are publicly bookable on campus (www.ticketfairy.com ). Some metered street parking (2-hour) exists on Kelburn streets by campus, but longer parking is scarce. Most locals strongly recommend taking a bus or the cable car instead. If you do drive, allow extra time to find a space, and note that campus gates may lock after hours (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Is The Hub wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The Hub was built with full accessibility in mind. All entrances are step-free and there are elevators/ramp access to every level (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Wheelchair-accessible seating spots are available for events, and service staff can help position a wheelchair or guide you as needed. Accessible toilets are also provided on each floor (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Is there a dress code for Hub events?
There is no strict dress code. The Hub’s atmosphere is casual, reflecting university life. Most people wear everyday attire (jeans, neat t-shirts, jackets, etc.). The only considerations are weather and event type: Wellington can be cool and windy even inside, so bring layers (www.ticketfairy.com ). If an event is formal (e.g. a ceremony), you’ll be notified separately; otherwise come comfortably.
Are children and families welcome at The Hub?
The Hub itself has no age restriction – it’s a campus building open to all. Family members and kids are welcome at appropriate events (like daytime fairs, cultural festivals or family-friendly performances). Keep in mind many evening events are 18+ (especially those serving alcohol), so children would not be admitted to those. Always check the specific event listing for any age limits. In general, daytime Hub events are often all-ages, while club nights and parties are limited to adults (www.ticketfairy.com ).
What should I bring with me when attending The Hub?
Good essentials are personal ID (many events are 18+ and require ID) (www.ticketfairy.com ), weather-appropriate layers, and perhaps a small cushion if you think you’ll be on a bench. A bottle of water is smart (there are drinking fountains upstairs), and a compact umbrella or raincoat is wise if rain is forecast during your walk up to Kelburn (www.ticketfairy.com ). Also, bring only what you need – large backpacks aren’t needed and may be searched when it’s crowded (www.ticketfairy.com ). A camera is fine for photos, just turn off any flash during shows (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Can I bring my own food or drinks?
Small snacks and sealed water bottles are allowed inside the venue. You can buy coffee and snacks at The Lab or Nam D during events (www.ticketfairy.com ). Outside food (like packed sandwiches or fruit) is generally okay. However, outside alcoholic drinks are strictly prohibited at The Hub (www.ticketfairy.com ) (alcohol can only be purchased on-site if the event has a licensed bar). If you need something more substantial, stow your drinks/snacks on the side benches and enjoy them quietly.
What are The Hub’s facilities like (toilets, Wi-Fi, etc.)?
The Hub has clean restrooms on multiple levels, including accessible toilets along with changing tables (www.ticketfairy.com ). Free Wi-Fi (Eduroam and a guest network) covers the building, so you should have internet access on modern devices (www.ticketfairy.com ). Power outlets are available near many tables if you need to charge a phone or laptop. Other facilities: there’s a student co-op store nearby for snacks or sundries, and an ATM on campus, but inside The Hub itself are just the café counters and washrooms.
How many people can The Hub hold?
The Hub covers about 4,260 m² (www.ticketfairy.com ). In practice, for standing-room events it can comfortably fit several hundred people (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). (For seated events, a few hundred folding chairs might be set up.) It's not as large as a city arena, so very big shows can reach capacity quickly. Always assume popular gigs might “sell out” and plan to get there early.
Is The Hub station or outdoor-friendly in winter?
The Hub is fully covered by a sturdy roof, so events go ahead even in bad weather. In winter or on rainy days the glass walls stay closed and the space remains sheltered. However, because of Wellington’s wind chill, it can still feel cool inside. We recommend dressing warmly or bringing a light jacket even indoors (www.ticketfairy.com ). On very mild days the large sliding doors might open to let fresh air in, but you’ll never get soaked by rain in the hall.
Can The Hub be hired for private functions or conferences?
Primarily The Hub is used for university and student events. It can be booked by other organisations (such as departmental conferences or community groups) through the university’s venues office. However, note it’s a very informal, open-plan hall – not a formal auditorium. It’s great for fairs, exhibitions and casual functions (with room to move), but less suited for a formal banquet or professional theatre without extra decor. If you have equipment needs (AV, stage setup), those can usually be provided, but you may need to coordinate with campus services. For details, contact Victoria University’s venue hire desk.
