About Wellington Sports Cafe
The Wellington Sports Cafe is a casual sports bar and café in the heart of Te Aro’s nightlife district. Located at 21 Blair Street/Courtenay Place, it occupies an historic early-20th-century warehouse-style building (near heritage-listed warehouses from 1905 (wellingtoncityheritage.org.nz )) but inside it feels like a modern sports pub. The venue is known for its **giant screens and lively atmosphere** – an advertising blurb even boasts “the biggest sports on the biggest screen in town” (www.tripadvisor.com ). The interior centers on a huge drop-down screen and multiple TVs so patrons can follow any game. It offers a build-your-own burger menu (burgers from about $10 each) and has a strong selection of craft beers on tap. Reviews praise the **generous portions and reasonable prices** (wanderlog.com ) (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). In short, Sports Cafe bills itself as a place to eat, drink and watch sport – a combination of a gastropub and a sports viewing venue.
The venue has a genuine sports-bar vibe with walls often showing team colors and memorabilia. It’s famous locally for showing all kinds of live sporting events (rugby, cricket, soccer, NFL, etc.) on its multiple screens (wanderlog.com ). The staff are known to flip games on request. There’s even a separate section for large groups (with sofas or big tables) (wanderlog.com ) (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). Late at night the bar often becomes a club atmosphere with loud music and DJs – one reviewer notes “great sound system, great DJs” at Sports Cafe (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). In summary, what makes this cafe unique is the **combination of oversized sports screens, craft beer and customizable burgers**, all served in a bustling, unpretentious environment (www.tripadvisor.com ) (wanderlog.com ). It has become a staple for Wellington sports fans and nightlife goers seeking a lively shared experience.
Events and Programming
Wellington Sports Cafe is not just for watching games – it also hosts **regular themed events and nightlife programming**. In addition to screening live sports (e.g. major rugby matches, world cricket, football leagues, etc.), the space is used for weekly specials and club nights. For example, the cafe runs **“Salsa Tuesdays”** (Latin dance night) each week (wanderlog.com ), and publishes a $1 buffalo-wing special on Wednesdays (as one customer happily noted (thefamilycompany.co.nz )). Weekends turn into mini-concert nights or DJ parties: one event listing shows a “Reboot Vol.3” DJ night (featuring Auckland DJ BRIGSY) on 14 October 2022 (www.ticketfairy.com ), and another lists a pop concert by a UK singer (Joely) in May 2022 (www.ticketfairy.com ). These club-show events usually run late (Friday/Saturday nights after 9pm) and may have a modest cover charge. Unlike sports viewings (which are free), ticketed events like live music or dance parties often require advance purchase. Ticket prices are generally affordable – for example, past club gigs there have sold tickets around NZ$10–20. To catch these, patrons watch local ticket outlets (Moshtix, Eventfinda, etc.) or check Sports Cafe’s social media for announcements. In short, one finds a mix of** sports screenings and live entertainment**: casual game nights on weekdays, plus bigger dance or DJ nights on weekends (wanderlog.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
During major sports seasons the cafe dedicates its screens to the big games (e.g. every All Blacks test or rugby-World-Cup match, national league finals, even NFL Sunday games), making it a go-to spot for die-hard fans. Outside of events, it also runs fun initiatives – for instance, one flyer highlights “Wing Wednesdays for $1 wings” to draw the lunch crowd. Overall, visitors should expect to hear a rota of music (often current hits or EDM on Friday/Saturday) (thefamilycompany.co.nz ), sports commentary on Sunday afternoons, and a rotating schedule of theme nights. Special events and parties are advertised locally, and loyal patrons often plan to arrive early to grab seats or let loose on the dance floor when the lights come up late at night.
Tickets and Booking
For most sports viewing at the cafe, **no ticket is required** – entry is walk-in and first-come. Special events (concerts, DJs, or themed parties) may have paid entry. Tickets for those are typically sold online or at the door. To find tickets, check local New Zealand ticketing sites (such as Moshtix or Eventfinda) a few weeks before an advertised event. As a hypothetical example, both the Brigsy DJ night and Joely’s show were listed online (www.ticketfairy.com ), so checking those sites or the venue’s own page in advance is wise. Popular events can sell out, so book early. There’s no formal box office – if buying in person, arrive when doors open.
Pricing for paid shows is usually modest: expect indie gigs or DJ nights to run roughly NZ$10–20. Ticket tiers (general admission vs reserved) vary by show, but most club events at Sports Cafe are general admission standing-room or casual seating. Unlike a seated theatre, there’s no assigned seating chart. For big game days or free sports nights, no booking is needed at all – just show up (especially Fridays after 6pm and weekends when it’s busiest). If coming with a large group, you can **reserve a table** by calling ahead or signing up on a booking app (the venue uses systems like AutoReserve for large parties). However, many reviewers note that tables fill fast, so arriving early on busy nights is recommended. In summary, **sports screenings are free and drop-in**, while club/dance events require buying tickets through the normal NZ ticket outlets in advance (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Seating and Layout
Inside, Sports Cafe has an open-plan pub layout. There is a long central bar, plus a scattering of high tables and stools throughout. A large raised platform or terrace area at one end is the main viewing spot for the huge projector screen and wall of TVs. (One reviewer praised the “massive screen, and plenty of TVs” (thefamilycompany.co.nz ).) The middle and back walls each have monitors, so most spots have a good view. A separate lounge section with couches and a private bar area is set aside for large groups or private hires (wanderlog.com ). Seating is **mostly general-admission**; on busy nights customers claiming a table or stool can stay there, but others may stand around the bar or dance floor. There are no numbered seats — it’s first-come, first-served. For seated viewing of games, the best spots are center-facing the main screen. Guests often lean on the bar or stand near corners to see multiple screens.
The venue is moderately sized: it feels busy with 100–150 people present. Those closer to the front face the largest screen, while the bar area at the back lets you watch multiple TVs (good for bar service access). One insider tip is to **avoid sitting right by the speakers** if you can, as music nights can get loud. The wood-and-metal décor with sports memorabilia and neon lights gives a true sports-bar feel, but note that the ceiling is fairly low in places. Sightlines are generally good (no large obstructions), so even from the back you can catch the action (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). Because the atmosphere can be rowdy, seats near the front platforms (by the DJs or stage) are best if you want to dance or party, while quieter tables at the side walls are better for conversation.
Getting There and Parking
Wellington Sports Cafe’s exact address is **21 Blair Street** (corner of Blair and Courtenay Place), Te Aro, Wellington 6011. It’s in the city centre bar/restaurant precinct, just off Courtenay Place. For public transport, the venue is very well connected. Multiple bus lines stop within a few minutes’ walk – for example, Clayton Street and Cuba/Courtenay Place are major stops for Metlink buses. One nearby stop, “Courtenay Place at Courtenay Central,” is served by routes 1, 2, 3, 23, 29 and the Airport Flyer (moovitapp.com ). These buses run frequently from suburbs and downtown. Wellington Railway Station (the main train hub) is about 1 km away (around a 15-minute walk) and from there you can catch buses or simply walk down Willis/Cuba Street towards Courtenay Place. The iconic Wellington Cable Car also stops at Lambton Quay, and from there it’s a 5–7 minute walk on flat ground. In short: you can reach Sports Cafe by any of the city’s major bus lines or by walking from the train station.
For drivers, on-street parking in Courtenay Place is extremely limited (meters and time limits apply). Instead, most visitors use nearby car parks. The closest big ones are the **Marion Street Car Park** (entry at 26 Marion Street, just a 3-minute walk west) (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ) and the **Knigges Avenue Car Park** (11 Knigges Ave, Vivian Street entrance, ~4-minute walk) (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ). Both are Wellington City Council-operated, with casual rates starting around $3/hr. (Marion St Car Park is open late – see hours (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ) – so staying late is fine.) Another option is the smaller 48-hour or Wilson Parking lots near Manners Street (a short walk). Rideshares and taxis can drop off customers right outside on Blair Street or at the Courtenay Place front. If coming from the airport, the Airport Flyer bus stops on Courtenay Place as well, and a quick walk will get you there. Overall, public transit is usually easier than driving – but if you do park, plan to pay in parking machines and watch the 2-hour limits on streets. Evening parkers often use Marion St or Knigges Ave and then walk three minutes over to the cafe for an event.
Inside the Venue
Expect a lively, casual atmosphere once inside Sports Cafe. The entrance opens into a single-level space; there are usually no stairs at the front door (good for wheelchair access, see below). At the door there is typically a host or bouncer checking IDs – for anything past 9pm, you should be prepared to show photo ID (passport or driver’s licence), since it’s a licensed bar (wanderlog.com ). The decor includes dark walls, neon signs, sports memorabilia and team flags. Walls have big-mounted screens and projectors; the bar sits under one large screen with speakers overhead, so the sound is immersed.
On entry, you’ll see the bar straight ahead. Bartenders serve beers (local craft taps, ciders and bottles) and mixed drinks. The food menu is chalked on a board or hands-on table tenters. It focuses on pub fare – build-your-own burgers (with all the toppings), pizzas, wings, nachos, fries, etc. (One promo promises $10 burgers and cocktails (www.tripadvisor.com ).) Many customers report the portions are big and the prices reasonable (wanderlog.com ). There is usually a food runner who takes orders at tables and a separate kitchen in back. Bar snacks (peanuts, chips) might be available at the counter too. Expect a straightforward menu of pub classics; even picky eaters will find burgers, fries or salad options listed.
For entertainment beyond sports, a DJ or live band will set up near the side wall or platform when events begin. When no live act is on, background music plays (top 40/pop on weekends, sports anthems during breaks). The venue DOES have free Wi-Fi (ask staff for the password) and phone charging can be done at outlets by the bar. There is a small space at the very back where merchandise is displayed during concerts (usually just flyers, stickers or band merch) – it’s not a full store. A coat rack is available near the entrance though it can fill up on cold nights. Restrooms are at the rear: men’s and women’s facilities with baby-change. (Usually you wait only a few minutes for the toilets even on busy nights.) Bar staff will also sell you event tickets or sign you up for a guest list the night of a show.
One unique feature is that Sports Cafe includes a TAB betting/post-race terminal area and a handful of slot machines along one wall (patrons gamble on horse races or pokies in a corner). This gambling lounge gives it an extra “casino pub” feel that some visitors mention. Aside from that, the rules are typical: no outside food or drink, no large bags, no smoking (Wellington bans indoor smoking), and usually no re-entry once you leave. The dress code is completely casual – think sports jerseys, jeans or summer dresses – though on special club nights some people dress up. In short, this is the kind of place where you can come straight from work in a shirt and fit right in (wanderlog.com ).
Nearby Amenities
The cafe is surrounded by plenty of options for dining and lodging. Just steps away on Courtenay Place and nearby Cuba Street, you’ll find dozens of fellow bars, restaurants and late-night eateries. For example, popular neighbors include brewpubs, pizza joints and Asian fusion restaurants – ideal for a pre-show dinner or post-event bites. (Toast Courtenay Place and Mooch Bar are a couple of blocks away to the north; Burger Geek and The Library Pub are one block east.) If you want a drink before meeting friends, there are cocktail bars and wine bars all along Courtenay Place and Cuba Street.
For hotels, the Rendezvous Hotel (formerly James Cook) is just around the corner on Courtenay Place (under 100m away). Novotel Wellington and Ibis are a 5–7 minute walk via Willis/Cuba Street. Smaller boutique motels and many B&Bs line the adjacent back streets. So it’s very easy for out-of-town visitors – walk from your downtown hotel or a short taxi ride at night.
If you arrive by car and need a restroom or snack, note that Courtenay Place is open late. The vibe is very nocturnal: bars and kebab shops stay open until 4am on weekends. Coffee shops and some eateries operate during the day Monday-Saturday. The area can be busy and noisy, especially Fridays and Saturdays after 10pm, so plan accordingly. Likewise, if you need to leave late, the main roads (Taranaki/Willis) still have buses and Ubers running until around 1–2am. Rideshare drivers frequently congregate near the Rendezvous corner for pickups/drop-offs.
As for planning your visit time: on non-event days, arriving 30–60 minutes before an international match or Sunday afternoon game is advisable to secure an indoor table. For ticketed concerts or club shows, arriving at the posted “doors open” time is wise. In general, Wellington city centre recommends getting there a bit early – taxis and rideshares can have delays around 9pm when everyone goes out. A friendly tip from locals is to give yourself an extra 15 minutes if you’re walking from Lambton Quay or the waterfront, in case of crowds crossing the road.
What Makes This Venue Special
Several things set Wellington Sports Cafe apart. Architecturally, it occupies part of a heritage warehouse block dating from 1905 (wellingtoncityheritage.org.nz ). The exterior façade of Blair Street retains a classic brick-and-stone look, which contrasts with the modern sports-bar interior. Inside, the sheer scale of the audiovisual setup is unique – the projection screen is said to be the largest in any Wellington bar (theguide.live ) (www.tripadvisor.com ). This “mega-screen” combined with numerous TVs makes it a benchmark for game viewing.
Culturally, Sports Cafe has carved out a niche by blending the casual group-fare culture of pubs with a passionate sports-fan atmosphere. It’s the sort of place where Wellingtonians who love the All Blacks, NBA finals or the Eels game can go together to cheer. It even accommodates international sports preferences – staff will switch to AFL, NFL or other broadcasts on request (for touring fans). Its location – amid theaters and nightlife – also means it’s been a prime spot for post-concert parties or after-show celebrations.
Some patrons note famous or especially memorable events here. For example, whenever the New Zealand national team wins a big game, the crowd “erupted like at a stadium” – an experience many say they won’t forget. Others recall seeing touring rugby teams stop by for a pint (a common post-match hangout for visiting players). On the entertainment side, Sports Cafe occasionally hosts Wellington’s local radio DJs or comedy nights.
In short, Wellington Sports Cafe matters to the community because it’s more than just a bar – it’s a **clubhouse for sports fans**. It has become a local tradition for watching finals together or grabbing an after-work drink in a lively setting. Actors, musicians or sports figures in town often drop by here, which adds to its reputation. The combination of big screens, big food and friendly staff (many regulars describe the crew as “adorable” (wanderlog.com ) (thefamilycompany.co.nz )) gives the venue a homey feel despite its urban edge. Whether it’s a historic win or a DJ party, there tends to be a sense of occasion that makes nights here memorable.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Sports Cafe is on one level with a wide front door, making it relatively wheelchair-friendly. (However, extra tall wheelchairs might need assistance due to a slight threshold.) All main areas – bar, dining and dance floor – are ground-floor. There is an accessible restroom. If you have specific needs (like hearing loops), call ahead to confirm accommodations.
What to Bring/Not Bring: Bring a valid photo ID for anyone 18+ (even on Sunday games, bars may check IDs). Carry some cash for tips (though cards are accepted at most bars). As it’s a pub, wearing comfortable clothes and flat shoes is best. Avoid large backpacks or bulky items: space is tight on busy nights. You may want earplugs if you’re sensitive to loud music. Phones and cameras are allowed, but flash photography is discouraged during shows. Standard bag-check rules apply (no weapons or outside alcohol).
Age Restrictions: Until ~8pm the venue is family-friendly (under-18s can come with supervisors). After 9pm on Fridays/Saturdays it effectively becomes 18+ (.NZ law requires customers to be 18+ around serving bars late at night). On weekday sports nights it’s usually all ages or 18+ depending on Liquid licensing; when in doubt, check their notice or ask staff.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t assume you can stand anywhere – once busy, some areas are “reserved” by groups at their tables. (If visiting with friends, secure a spot together early.) Don’t spend too long in the smoking area – Wellington bans indoor smoking, so have your cigarettes outside promptly. Also avoid wearing heavy perfumes or open containers outside buses/taxis when arriving – locals can be sensitive to smells in close quarters.
Special Tips:
Get there early on game days (30+ minutes before kickoff) to claim a good seat close to the screen. The place fills quickly because it’s so popular for big matches (wanderlog.com ) (thefamilycompany.co.nz ).
Wednesdays are wing-nights. If you love spicy wings and cheap eats, come early for $1 buffalo wings (one of the best value deals (thefamilycompany.co.nz )).
If you have a large group, consider calling ahead to block off tables. They do allow Reserving via phone or their site, especially for parties over 10.
During winter, check if they stream dark-weather sports (like northern hemisphere soccer); the bar can get chilly if they leave doors open, so dress accordingly.
For parking, plan on a short walk – the Marion St or Knigges car parks are nearby and cost only a few dollars an hour (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ) (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ). Arriving just before last bus/train home (around 11pm) means a crowd rush outside, so either stay late (car parks allow it) or come a bit earlier to beat the traffic.
In general, the best advice is to embrace the friendly “pub” vibe: chat with the bartenders, order local craft beers, and enjoy the shared excitement when a big score happens. Regulars say the crew is very accommodating (if you have a special game in mind, just ask them to switch channels) (wanderlog.com ). With that in mind, you’ll be set for a fun, hassle-free night at Wellington Sports Cafe.
Where is Wellington Sports Cafe located and what are its hours?
Wellington Sports Cafe is at **21 Blair Street** (corner of Blair & Courtenay Place) in Te Aro, Wellington. It lies in the downtown bar district, steps off Courtenay Place. The pub has a unique late-night schedule: it’s closed Monday–Thursday. On Friday and Saturday it opens from about 5pm until 4am , and on Sunday it’s open from about 2:30pm to 10pm (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). (Always double-check social media in case special events extend hours further.)
Do I need to buy tickets to watch sports at the cafe?
No, watching live sports at Wellington Sports Cafe is generally **free and open to all**. The big screens run broadcasts of major games (rugby, soccer, etc.) at no charge. You do not need tickets or reservations if you’re just stopping by to catch a match. You should arrive early for popular games, as seating is first-come. Tickets are only sold if there’s a special event or concert advertised. In those cases (as in past DJ/concert listings (www.ticketfairy.com )), tickets are available from online platforms or at the door.
What is the age limit at Wellington Sports Cafe?
The cafe operates as a licensed bar, so normal legal age rules apply. Early in the day (especially on Sundays), minors can enter if accompanied by adults, but after about 9pm it becomes effectively 18+ (as required by NZ law). Basically, expect to need photo ID for anyone 18 or older after evening hours. In practice, it’s a popular late-night adult venue on weekends. If you’re bringing younger guests for a sports screening, plan to arrive before 6pm and be prepared to supervise them (staff may ask for ID).
Are there wheelchair or disability access facilities?
Yes, Sports Cafe is on ground level with no permanent steps at the main entrance, which generally allows wheelchair access. The path into the bar and main seating area is wide. There is at least one accessible restroom. Keep in mind that during very crowded events it can be tight indoors, so if you need special assistance it’s wise to call ahead and alert the staff. Otherwise, the staff are usually happy to help with seating arrangements. Public transit access is also easy (buses drop at Courtenay Place nearby) (moovitapp.com ).
How do I get to Wellington Sports Cafe by public transport?
Getting there by bus or train is straightforward. Multiple Metlink bus routes stop on Courtenay Place within a 3–4 minute walk (for example, buses #1, #2, #3, #23, #29, and the Airport Flyer all serve nearby stops (moovitapp.com )). Wellington Railway Station is about 1 km north (a 10–15 min walk via Cuba St), with frequent trains from the Hutt Valley and Kapiti. The Wellington Cable Car ends at Lambton Quay, then it’s a 5-7 minute walk on flat streets to Blair Street. If using rideshare/taxi, drop-offs are easy right outside on Blair Street or Courtenay Place (non-special loading zone area). In summary: take any suburb bus into Courtenay, or walk a short distance from central train/cable stops, and you’ll find Sports Cafe on Blair St just south of Courtenay.
Is there parking near Sports Cafe, and how much does it cost?
Street parking is very limited on Courtenay Place, so most drivers use nearby public car parks. The closest is the Marion Street Car Park (entry at 26 Marion St, Te Aro) (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ), about a 3-minute walk away; it charges from ~$3 per hour (early bird and flat rates are advertised on site). Another option is Knigges Avenue Car Park (11 Knigges Ave, near Vivian St) (www.wilsonparking.co.nz ), also roughly a 4-minute walk. Both operate with pay machines. These lots stay open late, so you can park for the night if your event goes past midnight. Allow a bit of time to walk from the car park to Blair St. Parking meters on the street (Blair, Courtenay) tend to fill up or require fees during business hours. So in practice, using Marion St or Knigges Ave car parks is easiest.
What are the best seats or areas in Wellington Sports Cafe?
The “best” spot depends on your preference. If you want a direct, unobstructed view of the main screen and stage, grab a seat in the large front lounge area facing the screen. If you prefer a social vibe, standing near the center or by the bar gives you sightlines to multiple TVs (a reviewer notes “plenty of TVs to watch the sport on” (thefamilycompany.co.nz )). For quieter conversation, side tables away from the speaker stacks are good. Large groups often reserve couches in the back lounge. By late night, the dance floor area front-center becomes prime for the music. There are no reserved seats – it’s first-come, so arrive early and claim your table. Avoid spots where a pillar or railing might block the view. In short: face the screen for games, or position near the DJ area for music nights (thefamilycompany.co.nz ).
Can I bring outside food or drinks into the Sports Cafe?
No – as a licensed venue, they do not allow outside alcohol or complete meals. You must purchase food and drink on-site. Finger foods (appetizers) that come with your drink are fine, but hosts will expect you to order from the cafe menu if you stay long. Bringing in bottled water or basic snacks (like wrapped candy) is generally okay, but anything resembling a meal or a bottle of wine would not be permitted. If you have dietary needs, the kitchen can often accommodate (just explain at the counter). But plan to eat there; as one review said, the food portions are “huge” (thefamilycompany.co.nz ) and prices reasonable.
What food and drink are available at Wellington Sports Cafe?
The menu is classic sports-bar fare. Expect **burgers (build-your-own style)**, pizzas (eg. Margherita, BBQ chicken), chicken wings, nachos, fries and the like. A cocktail list and a broad beer selection are featured: local craft brews on tap, ciders and spirits. One promotional note even highlights “build-your-own burgers and a selection of beers” (wanderlog.com ). Specials change weekly – for instance $1 buffalo wings on Wednesdays have been advertised. Typical drink prices are about $10 for cocktails or jugs of beer. There’s also soft drinks and non-alcoholic cocktails. Bar staff can make simpler cocktails or order from NZ’s current beer specials. No full dinner entrees or gourmet menu exists – it’s all shareable bar food. Staff are known to be helpful with menu questions and will remind you of any ongoing food/beer specials on the night.
Is there a dress code at Wellington Sports Cafe?
No formal dress code. It’s very casual. Patrons wear whatever they like – jeans, jerseys, T-shirts or summer dresses are all common. On game days people often wear team jerseys. For DJs and club nights, people might dress up a bit more in smart-casual outfits. The main thing is to be comfortable and follow standard “no offensive clothing” pub rules (no excessive profanity, discriminatory slogans, etc.). Footwear is required. Essentially, come as you wish — Sports Cafe’s customer base includes everyone from students to businesspeople on a night out (thefamilycompany.co.nz ).
Does Wellington Sports Cafe have Wi-Fi and are phones allowed?
Yes, they offer free Wi-Fi; just ask the staff for the network name and password. And yes, you can absolutely use your phone or tablet. It’s common to see people texting friends or even video-calling on the TVs. However, keep mobile phones on silent during shows or loud games (no cameraphones with flash during performances). Wi-Fi speed is decent enough for Instagram or sports updates, though heavy streaming might slow during peak hours. There isn’t a strict policy against phones – just use common sense (no video recording live performances unless approved).
Can I book a table or pre-order meals for my group?
Yes, small reservations are possible. For a group (especially 6+ people), you can call the cafe or use an online booking tool (they appear on some reservation sites) to hold a table. Mention your group size and time. The staff will try to accommodate, especially for midweek football games or early evening. During very busy times (Fri/Sat nights), priority goes to those with reservations. However, there’s no fixed/prepaid pre-ordering of meals – you simply order food at the table when you arrive. It’s a good idea to arrive at least 10 minutes before your booking to settle in, since lines to the bar can form on busy nights.
What kind of crowd does Wellington Sports Cafe attract?
A mixed crowd. On weekday game days and Sunday afternoons you’ll see local sports fans of all ages (often wearing jerseys). Friday and Saturday nights it’s younger club-goers and casual drinkers, including music-enthusiasts for DJ nights. The vibe is usually friendly; regulars are welcoming to newcomers. Tourists interested in sports often drop by, as do student groups. As one user put it: “there’s always sport on ... separate area if you’ve got a group” (thefamilycompany.co.nz ). In short, expect sports fans during matches and a more party crowd late at night.
Are outside tickets or event details published somewhere?
The cafe itself does not have a public box office, but upcoming events (DJs, live bands) are usually promoted through New Zealand ticketing platforms (Moshtix, Eventfinda, Ticket Fairy). You may also find flyers or announcements on its social media pages. For example, a club show was listed on Ticket Fairy (www.ticketfairy.com ). Always purchase through legitimate ticketing sites and not from scalpers. For major sports events, no ticket is needed; just walk in and watch free of charge.
What is the seating capacity of Wellington Sports Cafe?
The cafe is mid-sized for Wellington standards. While exact numbers aren’t published, it comfortably holds around 100–150 patrons (seated and standing combined). On big game nights it feels full with about 100 people inside. In practise, capacity is limited mainly by space – once tables are full and floor areas are crowded, staff may limit entry. If a special event or concert (club show) is planned, that event’s listing will mention if the venue is sold out. Otherwise, it operates on a first-come basis until it’s full.
Does Sports Cafe show live sports events (like All Blacks games or NFL)?
Absolutely. Streaming live sports is a core part of its identity. All major code games – New Zealand rugby (All Blacks, Super Rugby), national football (soccer), cricket internationals, rugby league, and popular overseas sports like NFL or NBA – are shown on the big screens whenever they happen. The staff will adjust channels if patrons request a particular game. If a high-profile sports event is scheduled (World Cup matches, Olympic games, etc.), the cafe usually advertises it on their page so fans know to come watch together.
Is there an ATM at Wellington Sports Cafe?
No, there is no ATM inside the Sports Cafe. It accepts credit/debit cards widely, so you can pay by card at the bar. If you need cash for tips, you can use nearby ATMs: there are multiple banks’ ATMs on Courtenay Place and Willis Street, all within a short walk (1–2 minutes). Many pubs also add a small surcharge for card use, but there is usually a machine surcharge only for cash outs at ATMs, so plan accordingly.
What is sports betting like at the cafe?
Sports Cafe doubles as a TAB (betting) outlet. You can place bets on horse races or sports at their TAB terminal downstairs. During big race days (like Melbourne Cup) you might see a crowd gathered around the betting odds board. There’s also a corner with slot-machines (pokies). It’s fairly discreet – you don’t need to use these services if you don’t want. But if you do enjoy a flutter while watching sport, the facility is there. The usual NZ restrictions apply (must be 18+ to bet). Otherwise, for casual visitors it’s just part of the ambiance that sets Sports Cafe apart (like a mini-casino atmosphere by the bar).
