About The Rogue & Vagabond
The Rogue & Vagabond is a small craft-beer bar and live music venue at 18 Garrett Street (Te Aro, Wellington), tucked just off vibrant Cuba Street in the Glover Park area . It opened in the early 2020s and quickly made a name for itself as a “laid-back craft beer bar” . The atmosphere is famously casual – one review describes it as “like having a beer at your mate’s place” . Inside, local artwork decorates the walls (the owners even call it a commission-free art space ), giving it an eclectic, open-mic venue feel. There’s also a large outdoor grassed courtyard with colourful beanbag seating , which is rare for a city-centre bar – and dogs are welcome there (meet “Bruce, our K9 bouncer,” as the owners jokingly note ). Despite its cozy vibe, the Rogue & Vagabond packs a full bar: about 18 beer taps plus two handpumps and roughly 80 bottled beers , along with wines and cocktails. Pub-style food is served all day (fresh pizzas, burgers, tacos and snacks ). In terms of space it’s intimate – the venue’s capacity is around 200 people – but that fits its friendly, neighbourhood character. The combination of top-notch local craft beers, hearty food, dog-friendly lawn and a rotating lineup of live music has made it a standout in Wellington’s bar scene.
Events and Programming
The Rogue & Vagabond functions primarily as a live music hub. Most nights (especially Thursday through Saturday) feature bands or DJs covering genres from rock and indie to reggae, blues and funk. According to reviews, it is known for “live music Thursday-Saturday” and even a free jazz session on Sunday afternoons . Regular weekly events include “Sunday Jazz” gigs with local jazz ensembles (often free-entry or low-cover R18) . The venue also hosts special shows: album release parties for Kiwi artists, tribute acts (e.g. Classic Albums Live nights), reggae/dub events (“Peter Skankson’s skankiest ska”) and the like. In fact, it has been a featured venue in Wellington’s Jazz Festival, hosting acts like the Dave Wilson Quintet, Richter City Rebels, and Cinematic Light Orchestra . These ticketed concerts usually have modest prices (often NZ$15–$25) . Many community and student bands also play here, keeping the calendar full. In short, you’ll find everything from imported touring indie acts to local funk, metal, reggae and soul groups at the Rogue & Vagabond. Check the venue’s website or local gig guides for the current lineup – new shows are posted frequently (sometimes even weekly).
Tickets and Booking
How you get in depends on the event. Many Rogue & Vagabond nights are open door (especially jazz and local gigs) and free, merely requiring you to arrive before capacity is reached. For ticketed shows (special festivals or popular headliners), advance tickets are usually sold online via local ticketing outlets or promoters. For example, listings on event sites show presale tickets around $10 and door sales around $15 . There is no box office on site, so if a show requires a ticket you’ll need to look up the event before you go – the venue’s own site often links to the sales page (or you can use rock-music ticket platforms or Undertheradar listings). In all cases, there is no reserved seating, so buying in advance just guarantees you entry. Door sales (cash or card) are usually allowed if the event isn’t sold out. In busy times, it can help to arrive early. In short: check the online event description for each show. It will note if it’s R18 and if a cover charge or ticket is needed, versus a free-entry night.
Seating and Layout
Inside the Rogue & Vagabond is essentially a pub layout with an open floor. There are no fixed seats or numbered tables – it’s mostly general admission. A few high tables and bar stools line the walls, and there are bench seats along the bar, but on a peak night most patrons stand. The stage is at one end of the room; naturally the best views are from the center floor area in front of it. If you want to see (and hear) the musicians clearly, aim for a spot near the stage, or up front in the lawn area on sunny days . On quieter nights you can even snag a seat on the grassy courtyard or by a side table. There is no VIP section – it’s very much “first-come” in terms of standing space. Acoustically, the room is lively and can get loud near the bar and speakers. If volume is a concern, ear protection may be wise (rock gigs here do crank). Otherwise, much of the experience is simply mingling around the stage, grabbing a stool for a quick break, or chilling on the outdoor beanbags when the weather’s nice.
Getting There and Parking
The Rogue & Vagabond’s address is 18 Garrett Street, Te Aro (Wellington 6011). That puts it one block off Cuba Street in the heart of the city’s downtown/nightlife district . By car, you can reach Garrett Street via Cambridge or Courtney Place – then turn into the parking-limited side street. On-street parking on Garrett and nearby roads is mostly metered and often fills up on busy nights. A reliable paid option is the Wilson Parking lot at 11 Garrett Street (just around the corner) . It has about 16 spaces and typical rates (around NZ$12 per hour, NZ$30 for a day, with an $18 early-bird deal if you arrive before 9:30am ). Additional car parks (e.g. on The Terrace or in the CBD) are a short walk away if the lot is full. If you plan to take public transport, the venue is well-connected: most Wellington bus routes stop within a few blocks (courtesy stops on Cuba, Courtenay Place or Lambton Quay, all ~5-10 minutes walk). Wellington Railway Station is about 1km north (roughly a 10–15 minute walk via Victoria or Willis Streets). For ride-share or taxi drop-off, use Vivian/Cambridge or Cuba/West Maitland corners – the venue is easily spotted on Garrett Street. In summary, allow extra time to park or come by bus so you aren’t racing to make the start of the show.
Inside the Venue
Expect a relaxed bar atmosphere once inside. There is usually a host at the door to check tickets or ID (especially on R18 nights ). Security is friendly – this is a casual neighbourhood crowd. Inside you’ll find a wood-and-glass bar with beer taps on display. The bar staff pour a wide range of local craft beers (from the 18 taps and bottles noted above ), plus wine, cider, and cocktails. Notably, they serve house-made beer slushies – frozen draught beer treats that have become a fun specialty . The kitchen is open throughout most of the night: menu items include stone-fired pizza, burgers, hot wings, tacos, and fries . The venues is fully licensed (Mon–Sun noon–late ) and even has a small dedicated smoking veranda out back (behind the kitchen). Coats and bags can be hung along the wall or kept under a table; there is no cloakroom, so travel light. Restrooms are standard pub style at the back, and should be wheelchair-accessible. Note that Wi-Fi isn’t advertised, so you may rely on mobile data for connectivity. (Cell service is decent in central Wellington anyway.) Overall, it’s a social, live-music pub vibe: the mood picks up once the band starts, so having a drink or bite before the show is a good idea. The staff often encourage a friendly, all-ages crowd (on PG nights parents bring teens), reflecting the bar’s community feel.
Nearby Amenities
The Rogue & Vagabond is surrounded by Wellington’s bustling entertainment precinct. Within a block or two, there are dozens of options for pre-show dining and drinking. On Cuba Street itself you’ll find casual eateries (flatbreads, burgers, sushi, fish & chips, etc.) and people-watching cafés. A short walk away are acclaimed restaurants – for example, gourmet pizza joint L’ardoise and innovative tapas at Colony are nearby, as well as the busy fast-casual spots on Vivian and Woodward Streets. If you have time, match your Rogues visit with dinner on Cuba or Courtenay Place (some friends like to grab a bite at Golding’s Free Dive or Logan Brown Restaurant before a gig). After the Rogue closes (doors typically last call around midnight), the party can continue at late-night bars on Courtenay Place (Havana, Mambo’s, etc.) or at a nearby hotel lounge. In terms of accommodation, Te Aro is packed with options: backpacker hostels and modern apartment hotels (Quest, Taranaki House, etc.) are all within walking distance. Public transport runs regularly on main roads downtown until around midnight; after that taxis and rideshares become the norm. As a general tip, allow extra time for dinner or travel if you’re new here – comfortable café hours typically start winding down by 10pm, and city traffic tightens, especially on weekends. But rest assured, once you’re at the Rogue, it’s central enough to get home via any major route (cab back to the train station or buses on Lambton Quay, which run until late evenings).
What Makes This Venue Special
More than just another bar, The Rogue & Vagabond has a unique neighborhood charm. Its combination of craft beer passion and live-music dedication gives it character – coupled with eccentric touches like a lush backyard for dogs and emblazoned walls of local art. It’s one of the only inner-city bars in Wellington with an actual grassy courtyard (complete with beanbags) , which cuts a striking contrast to busy Cuba Street at night. Locals appreciate that it champions New Zealand brewing and musicians: small-town bands often call it “home base,” and the owners regularly book purely local lineups. Partly for this focus on community, the Rogue & Vagabond earned a Travellers’ Choice award on TripAdvisor, ranking it in the top 10% of Wellington bars (#5 of 28 pubs ). It’s beloved for being more than a music venue – it’s effectively a friendly living room with a bar. The dog-friendliness really stands out; even non-pet owners notice “Bruce the dog bouncer” patrolling the courtyard . Finally, its cultural impact is about supporting the arts: monthly art exhibitions on its walls give local painters exposure, and by hosting jazz festival and indie shows it helps keep Wellington’s creative scene vibrant. In sum, artists like playing here because audiences are right in their face and enthusiastic in a cozy space, and patrons love the inclusive, homey vibe combined with professional sound and lighting (for a venue its size). It feels like a genuine local hangout, which makes it special whether you’re grabbing a headline gig or just a quiet beer with pals .
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Rogue & Vagabond is at street level with no stairs to enter or move around, so it is wheelchair-accessible in concept. There is space to navigate between tables on the main floor. (If you have specific needs like an accessible toilet, it’s wise to call ahead, as the venue is in an older building.) Staff are generally happy to accommodate where they can. Age restrictions: Most evening gigs are licensed for 18+ patrons, so be prepared to show photo ID (even students on free nights have reported needing ID) . However, the bar does occasionally run all-ages events (such as Sunday jazz matinees, which have been listed as PG and free entry ). If you doubt the age policy, check the event info or ask when booking. What to bring: ID (for R18 shows) and some cash/card are handy. The bar takes cards, but cash is needed for tips or if the kitchen run out of card machines. A phone with tickets downloaded (if you have them) is important since many shows use e-tickets. Don’t forget weather-appropriate clothing: though mostly indoors, the grassy patch can get damp or cool. Earplugs can be useful if you’re sensitive to loud music. Dress code: There is none – come as you are. Concert-goers wear everything from band tees to casual jeans and sneakers. Many evenings have a “local bar” vibe, not club formal. Bag policy: There’s no strict policy here (as of our knowledge), but on very busy nights security may ask new arrivals to make bags visible or carry them at their side. Don’t expect a coat check. Photography: Snapshots on your phone are usually fine (no professional broadcasts), especially at the back or yard. If you want to film or photograph a performance, it’s polite to ask the band or promoter first. Food and drink: You may bring a water bottle to keep hydrated, but outside alcohol is not allowed. The bar menu has something for most: see pizza, wings, veggie tacos and more . Be aware there’s no separate dining room and service is at the bar, so order your food with your drinks order to avoid missing the show. If you have a big appetite, note that many local eateries close by 10pm; plan dinner early. Timing: Shows often start around 7:00–9:00pm with doors open about 30 minutes earlier. However, times vary by event – always double check your ticket or listing. For free events, arriving closer to start time is usually fine, but for paid gigs you may want to get there as soon as doors open to grab a prime spot. Nearby transport: The last downtown buses run until about midnight, and rideshares/cabs are plentiful in Te Aro. If catching a late train home, aim to leave by 11pm (the train station is a 10–15 minute walk) or get a taxi afterwards. Bonus tips: Look out for drink deals on social media (e.g. discounted beers or wing nights). The pub’s friendly regulars say tipping is appreciated but not mandatory – a small tip can make the night for your bartender. Above all, be respectful of other guests (especially when the music is on). The Rogue & Vagabond rewards those who come for the vibes and stay for the community.
What type of venue is The Rogue & Vagabond and what is its capacity?
The Rogue & Vagabond is a cozy craft beer bar and live music venue in Wellington’s Te Aro (Glover Park) district . It’s renowned for its laid-back atmosphere, extensive tap beer selection, and regular gigs. The space is relatively intimate – capacity is around 200 people – so it feels more like a friendly neighbourhood pub than a large concert hall.
What kind of events and music can I expect at The Rogue & Vagabond?
You’ll find a wide range of live music here. On any given week there may be rock, indie, reggae, funk, or soul bands playing. According to reviews, the venue offers “live music Thursday–Saturday” and even free Sunday jazz afternoons . It often hosts local jazz ensembles (even as part of the Wellington Jazz Festival) , tribute shows (Classic Album Live series), reggae/dub nights, and singer-songwriter gigs. Many shows are free entry (especially Sunday jazz) while special concerts have a modest cover charge (typically $10–$25) .
How do I get tickets, and what are the typical prices?
Tickets (if required) are usually sold through New Zealand ticketing websites or at the door. For major events, online presales are common – for example, Undertheradar listings show presales around NZ$10 with door sales around $15 . Smaller gigs may simply be open-door with free admission. In any case, no tickets means first-come standing entry. To be safe, check the specific show’s listing: it will say if it’s R18, what fees apply, and whether you can pre-buy. Overall, expect low prices compared to large venues (often $10–$25 cover if any, with many free nights) .
Where are the best spots to watch the show? Is it all general admission?
Yes, the Rogue & Vagabond has an open-plan layout with mainly standing room. There are a few high tables and bar stools, but no reserved seating or VIP sections. The stage is at one end of the bar, so the prime viewing spots are on the floor directly in front of it. If you want to see the performers clearly, arrive early to get a spot near the stage. During sunny weather you can also chill on the outdoor lawn with beanbags , which offers a more relaxed view. If it’s crowded, people often spread back toward the bar or sides – so near the front is best for immersion, and near the back (or outside) if you want to chat or easily get drinks.
How do I get to The Rogue & Vagabond and where can I park?
The address is 18 Garrett Street, Te Aro, Wellington (just one block off Cuba Street) . By car, Garrett Street is reached via Cambridge Terrace or Courtney Place. Street parking is very limited and mostly metered. A nearby option is the Wilson Parking lot at 11 Garrett Street (corner of Garrett/West Maitland) – it has about 16 spaces and standard rates (around $12/hour, $30/day). Other paid parks (on The Terrace or Lambton Quay) are a few minutes’ walk if needed. Public transport is convenient: many city buses stop on Cuba Street or Courtenay Place within walking distance, and Wellington Railway Station is about a 10–15 minute walk north. For ride-shares or taxis, ask for drop-off on Garrett or Cuba Street. In short, give yourself extra time for parking, or consider coming by bus/ride-share to avoid the hassle.
What can I expect inside the venue (atmosphere, amenities)?
Inside is a friendly pub vibe: dark-wood bar, low lighting, and (when music starts) a stage bathed in coloured lights. You order drinks at the bar, which has 18 taps of craft beer and bottled selections , as well as cocktails and wine. One quirky item is a beer “slushy” machine – frozen draft beer cocktail . The food menu runs pizza, burgers, wings, tacos and similar pub fare . There’s no cloakroom or phone booths, just the main room and restrooms at the back. Seating is informal – high bar stools and a few tables. A dedicated smoking area is available outside on the patio. The venue is dog-friendly, so you’ll often see well-behaved pups on the grass outside or at patrons’ feet. Overall, expect a sociable, somewhat loud atmosphere during shows, with friendly staff and a diverse crowd of locals and visitors.
Is The Rogue & Vagabond dog-friendly?
Yes! One of its unique features is being very pet-friendly. Dogs (generally only the well-behaved kind) are welcome in the grassed courtyard outside. In fact, the bar playfully refers to its resident pooch as “Bruce the doggie bouncer” . Just note that bringing your dog indoors during a show may depend on the evening’s crowd and Wellington’s liquor licensing; typically dogs stay outside but you can sit nearby. Always keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them. The grassy beanbag area is often full of dogs playing or lounging, which many patrons find part of the charm .
What are the age restrictions and dress code?
Most nighttime events at this bar are R18 due to alcohol licensing , so expect to show ID (passport or driver’s licence) at the door if you appear under 25. However, the venue also hosts daytime or special events (like Sunday Jazz) that have been advertised as PG and free entry , which means all ages are allowed (kids and teens are fine on those afternoons). As for dress, it’s very casual – patrons wear everything from jeans and band tees to smart-casual shirts. There is no formal dress code, but since people often come straight from work or dinner, tidy casual is a good rule (e.g. no swimwear or gym gear). In other words, come as you are: the vibe is a cool local pub, not a nightclub.
What food and drinks are available at The Rogue & Vagabond?
The Rogue & Vagabond prides itself on a broad craft beer selection (each tap rotating local brews) and a comfortable pub kitchen menu. Expect freshly made pizzas, loaded burgers, chicken wings, tacos, fries and the like . Notably, they even offer a beer-slushie (frozen beer cocktail) on the menu . If you have dietary needs, they do salads and vegetarian-friendly options, but don’t expect gourmet fare — it’s solid bar food meant to complement the drinks and shows. On the drink side, beyond the beers, you’ll find a full bar with cocktails, ciders, wines and non-alcoholic options. Cocktails and “mocktails” are made to order. If you’re hungry before a concert, plan to eat early – many Wellington eateries in the area stop serving by around 9:30–10 pm.
Is The Rogue & Vagabond wheelchair-accessible?
Yes, the venue floor is all on one level with a wide entrance, so a wheelchair can roll in without steps. Tables and bar areas have some clearance. The restrooms are on the same floor, though you may want to confirm with staff if you need a fully accessible toilet (as requirements can vary). The outdoor courtyard is also level. If you have specific mobility needs, it's a good idea to call ahead – the staff are friendly and generally helpful in accommodating guests. In practice, many wheelchair users have reported being able to attend shows here without issue, enjoying the music just like anyone else.
When should I arrive for a show, and what should I bring?
Shows here often start around 7–9pm. Doors usually open about 30–60 minutes before the stated start time. If it’s a free gig, you can arrive a bit later without worry (as long as the venue isn’t already full). For ticketed or popular nights, it pays to come early to claim a good spot. Always bring your photo ID if you plan to drink (or if it’s an R18 event) . You should also have any tickets or e-tickets ready on your phone, or printouts if needed. Cash and card both work at the bar, but it’s wise to carry a little cash for tips or snacks. Lastly, check the weather: if outside seating is planned (or if there’s waiting outside), a warm layer or umbrella might be handy. But once you’re inside rocking out, you likely won’t need much more than your ticket and ID!
What policies (like cameras or bag checks) should I know about?
The Rogue & Vagabond doesn’t publish a formal policies list, but common rules apply. Normally there is no dedicated coat check or locker, so bring only what you need. Bags might be checked if an event is very crowded or high-profile, but it’s not routine. Outside alcohol is prohibited. Cameras: general photography with a phone is fine for personal use, but professional camera/video (large lenses, tripods) usually requires permission from the band or management. The dress code is very casual. The main “policy” to remember is age restriction: nearly all nighttime shows are 18+ licensed (so you will need ID) . If the door staff or bouncer mentions anything, it will usually be “no outside alcohol, no weapons, ID please if you look under 25.” Basically treat it like any small live music bar. The environment is friendly, and patrons can usually enjoy the show without much enforcement beyond checking ID at entry.
