About Whangamatā Sports Bar
Whangamatā Sports Bar is a lively Kiwi-style pub and restaurant on the Coromandel Peninsula. It occupies a modern building (built around 2000) with about 480 m² of indoor space (www.trademe.co.nz ). The venue is known for its big screens, friendly surf-town vibe and hearty pub fare (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Locals and visitors alike praise the bartenders’ warm hospitality (going “above and beyond” for patrons (www.ticketfairy.com )) and enjoy classic Kiwi menu items like Scotch fillet steaks, lamb shanks or fish and chips (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Unusually for a pub, it serves breakfast, lunch and dinner (www.ticketfairy.com ). It also houses Whangamatā’s only TAB betting room and gaming machines (www.ticketfairy.com ), giving it a unique mix of sports-watching and pub culture in town.
Inside, the atmosphere is casual and friendly, with a mix of dining areas, lounge zones and a long bar at one side. Large flat roof beams and wood-and-neon décor give it a traditional pub feel, while an outdoor covered courtyard (the “Garden Bar”) offers extra seating under string lights on warm evenings (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). The space comfortably seats about 100–110 people (www.ticketfairy.com ) and can hold roughly 150–200 when packed with standing guests. Guests often drop by in beach gear – surfers and holidaymakers come straight from the sand – so expect bare feet, flip-flops and laid-back dress. Overall, it’s become the town’s hub after a day at the beach or surf: a place to enjoy cold drinks, pub games (pool tables and darts) and watch the big game on TV (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). In the summer holiday season Whangamatā swells with tourists, and the Sports Bar reliably proves a gathering spot where “good food, entertainment, and friendly service” meet the quintessential coastal pub experience (www.ticketfairy.com ). In fact, a recent listing even notes it as a “well-established business providing a reliable return” (www.trademe.co.nz ).
Events and Programming
The Sports Bar is busy year-round with a mix of sports broadcasts and live entertainment. Every major rugby, cricket, soccer or racing match is shown on the big screens, filling the place on game days (especially All Blacks tests and Rugby World Cup games). Beyond live sports, the bar runs a packed events calendar. Regular Friday karaoke nights are very popular (for example, a late-February 2025 karaoke party was heavily promoted) (www.ticketfairy.com ). There are also themed quiz or trivia nights, pool and darts tournaments, and special parties for holiday weekends (Valentine’s Day dinners, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, etc.) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Local bands and DJs play frequently – on summer weekends you might find retro rock‐n‐roll during Whangamatā’s annual Beach Hop festival (in March) or surf and blues acts; as one promotion noted, Beach Hop 2025 featured back-to-back nights with bands “Loose Change” and “The Recliner Rockers” on stage (www.ticketfairy.com ). In January 2025 the bar even joined Tui’s George FM Summer Tour, hosting DJs like TwoFōld and Benny Boy for a sold-out dance party (www.ticketfairy.com ). In short, expect a lively mix: local rock, cover bands, reggae or DJs spinning in the evenings, plus communal events like quiz or pool nights. The vibe is always casual and welcoming – most nights you can drop in for live music or fun without an entry fee. Larger concerts or touring DJs require advance tickets when booked, but smaller gigs and pub nights often have no cover charge (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Tickets and Booking
For ordinary visits – coming in to eat, drink or watch sports – you don’t need a ticket; Whangamatā Sports Bar largely operates as a walk-in pub. Only special events (like a big concert or DJ showcase) have ticketed entry. These events are announced weeks in advance via local media or the bar’s social pages. Tickets for such shows are sold through official channels – usually an online ticketing site or the artist’s promoter (www.ticketfairy.com ). The bar itself doesn’t maintain its own box office. To secure spots for popular shows, it’s best to buy tickets as soon as they go on sale. Organizers often drop advance tickets online (for example, a January 2025 George FM DJ event was sold through Ticketfairy (www.ticketfairy.com )). Any leftover tickets (if the event isn’t sold out) may be offered at the door on the night, but arriving early is wise.
Ticket prices vary. Low-key nights (local bands, karaoke, quiz evenings) often have no cover or a trivial entry fee. Bigger gig tickets are usually in the ~NZ$20–30 range (www.ticketfairy.com ). For instance, a January 2025 DJ show sold at roughly mid-$20s (www.ticketfairy.com ). Some events may offer cheaper advance tickets or two-tier pricing, so check the advertised details. In short: watch for each event announcement, buy early through the listed vendor, and note that the Sports Bar does not sell event tickets on its own.
Seating and Layout
The bar’s interior is open-plan pub style. Entering from Casement Road you’ll see the long counter with high stools down one side. Beyond the bar are rows of booths and mix-and-match tables for dining or casual seating (www.ticketfairy.com ). There is no fixed theatre-style seating or VIP section – almost everything is first-come. The arrangement is deliberately flexible: on normal nights you may dine or drink at any available table or sit at the bar. On busier nights (or when a band plays), staff may move tables to open floor space for standing listeners or dancing.
A highlight is the outdoor covered courtyard – called the “Garden Bar” – out back. It has picnic tables and chairs under a roof and heaters, making it a great sheltered spot on sunny afternoons or warm evenings (www.ticketfairy.com ). It’s also quieter, so many people retreat here for conversation. The main hall sometimes does get warm or loud when packed, so the garden seating is a good refuge.
There are a few pool (8-ball) tables and dartboards interspersed around the dining area (www.ticketfairy.com ). These game tables are shared – expect occasional interruptions if someone comes through to play a round. There’s even a ping-pong corner by the garden.
For live shows or any stage performance, a platform is set up at one end of the room. Front-center tables nearest that end give the best view of the band or DJ booth (www.ticketfairy.com ). For watching sports on TV, sit where you can see the nearest screen – several large TVs are located by the bar and along the walls. Because seating is flexible, many patrons simply cluster around a particular screen or stand. A useful guideline: about 100–110 people can be comfortably seated at once (www.ticketfairy.com ). If the place is totally jammed with standing crowds, it might hold around 150–200 people inside (plus overflow in the courtyard) (www.ticketfairy.com ). On a busy night it pays to claim a good spot early.
The sound system is typical pub quality: it pumps solid volume for music, so dancing or cheering won’t drown out the tunes (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you prefer quieter conversation, consider sitting in the covered outdoor area. The venue does not have a built-in spotlight or theatrical lighting—normal lighting creates a bar/lounge ambience. Bar staff or lighting techs can ad-hoc dim lights for a show if needed, but generally it’s a down-to-earth club vibe. Note also that there’s no formal coat check – guests tend to keep coats on chairs or hang jackets on walls. Personal belongings can sit at your table; if you must leave valuables for a moment, the bartenders will watch bags behind the bar on request.
Getting There and Parking
Whangamatā Sports Bar is located at 100 Casement Road, Whangamatā 3620 , on the corner just off Port Road (the town’s main shopping street) (www.ticketfairy.com ). It’s a busy block one to two minutes’ walk from the town centre and only a few minutes from the main beach or boat harbour (www.ticketfairy.com ). The entrance faces Casement Road; the rear parking lot can be accessed off the street behind the bar.
Onsite parking is available: the property includes a private car park behind the bar (www.ticketfairy.com ). There are also free street parking spaces along Casement Road and on Port Road nearby (www.ticketfairy.com ). Parking is free of charge, but note that spaces fill up on busy summer nights or during big events – plan to arrive early (at least 30–45 minutes before showtime) if you need a spot (www.ticketfairy.com ). If the lot is full, you may have to park on a side street within walking distance.
Public transport in Whangamatā is limited. There is no train service – the nearest train stations are hours away. Regional coaches (e.g. InterCity buses) run to Whangamatā from Auckland, Hamilton or Tauranga; coaches generally stop on Port Road near the Surf Club or Beach Hotel, about a 2–3 minute walk from the Sports Bar. From the coach stop it’s easiest to either walk or hop on a local taxi to the bar. Taxis and rideshare drivers (Uber/Lyft equivalents) can drop off right at the front entrance on Casement Road. The bar even operates a courtesy shuttle van for short local trips – ask the manager if you need a ride back to nearby hotels or to avoid drinking and driving (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Inside the Venue
Upon entry, you’ll see the long wooden bar to one side. The bar serves as the ordering counter for drinks (and food for smaller items). The atmosphere is informal and lively. Expect staff to be very outgoing and helpful – bartenders here have a reputation for great service (www.ticketfairy.com ). After about 8pm there will usually be at least one door person checking IDs; if you look under 25, you may be asked to show photo ID even if you’re just ordering a drink (www.ticketfairy.com ). There is no formal coat check, so keep your jacket and bag with you.
The venue is fully licensed with a full bar. They offer local craft beers, mainstream New Zealand and imported beers on tap and in bottles. One review even advertises “some of the coldest beer in town” kept at perfect chill (www.ticketfairy.com ). A variety of ciders, spirits and wines are also available, plus mixed drinks and cocktails. After a surf, a pint of lager or a crisp craft pilsner is a popular choice. Payment by cash or card (Visa/Mastercard) is accepted, so you do not necessarily need cash. (Kiwis often prefer to carry cash for bar tabs, but it’s not required if you have a card.)
Food is served all day: the menu stretches from classic pub lunch fare (burgers, steaks, fish and chips, lamb shanks) to pizzas and snack plates. Late diners also find shareable platters and lighter bites. There’s something “to suit all ages” (one TripAdvisor reviewer notes) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Staff will typically bring menus to the table, and there’s usually a specials board or posters updating set meals. Feel free to eat at the bar, at a booth or at a table – the seating is a mix of dining tables and lounge booths (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you’re there for a concert night, be aware that food service might stop before last call.
Basic amenities include restrooms just inside the premises: it’s a modern building, so at least one of the toilets is wheelchair-accessible. If you need assistance or directions to the facilities, just ask staff. You won’t find a merchandise counter or anything like that here; it’s not a theatre, so there’s no official merch sales desk. Wifi is not prominently advertised – the bar relies on guests’ 4G data, so phone signal can vary. If needed, you can always use your mobile data connection. Smoking must be done outside: by law all indoor areas are smoke-free, and a small smokers’ zone is available on the patio out back (www.ticketfairy.com ).
The overall vibe inside is friendly and communal. On a normal night you’ll see groups chatting over drinks and meals, while at other times the place is pulsing with music or cheering crowds. Noise levels can rise during bands and games, so those seeking quiet conversation often take a table by the rear wall or in the garden courtyard. In past reviews visitors note that the mix of good food, friendly locals and multiple sports screens makes Whangamatā Sports Bar both a neighbourhood pub and a fun entertainment venue.
Nearby Amenities
Whangamatā Sports Bar sits in the heart of town’s leisure district. Port Road – the main street lined with shops and eateries – is just a one-minute walk away (www.ticketfairy.com ). For pre-show dining or drinks you won’t have to go far. On Port Road you’ll find several casual cafes, fish-and-chip shops and bakeries. A standout is the Port Road Project (a café/bar) just around the corner, and right at the waterfront end of the street is the Beachfront Bar & Cafe with ocean views (www.ticketfairy.com ). For late-night takeaways there are pizza shops and at least one Indian restaurant (Kafal Indian) nearby (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you need groceries or supplies, a small supermarket (Pak’nSave) is on Port Road as well.
If you’re staying overnight, there are plenty of accommodations within a short walk. Around the corner on Port Road are motels like Palm Pacific, South Pacific and Whangamatā Beach Motel (www.ticketfairy.com ). A little further out (still within 5–10 minutes’ walk) is the Whangamatā Beach Hotel and a number of holiday parks. All these make it easy to hit the bar and stroll home. Bear in mind: on busy event nights (especially summer or holiday weekends), plan to arrive about 30–45 minutes early. This gives you time to park and order food without rushing (www.ticketfairy.com ). After a late show, taxis and rideshares can get backed up at the rank, so many guests either use the courtesy shuttle or simply walk back to hotels (the town centre is compact). Whangamatā’s nightlife is fairly down-to-earth: there are no late-night underground cars or superclubs nearby, so once you leave the Sports Bar it’s usually a short, easy walk or quick taxi ride back to most motels.
What Makes This Venue Special
Whangamatā Sports Bar stands out by combining that classic Kiwi pub hospitality with a full slate of entertainment. Visitors often rave about its “warm, welcoming atmosphere” – long-time patrons say the bartenders make you feel right at home (www.ticketfairy.com ). No other local venue offers the same combination of features: it has the town’s only Tabroom and gaming machines (www.ticketfairy.com ), a garden courtyard for warm nights, plus the biggest TV screens around. In short, it’s a friendly community pub that doubles as the place “to catch that big game” and to dance or listen to live music.
The bar’s unpretentious architecture – a large flat-roofed hall of wood and glass – fits its surf-town setting (www.ticketfairy.com ). Surfers and boaters come straight off the beach here, adding to the casual, local character (www.ticketfairy.com ). Over the years the venue has become woven into Whangamatā’s cultural life. It has hosted countless local events (surf-club after-parties, fishing competitions, charity fundraisers) and is a known stop for Beach Hop festival acts (www.ticketfairy.com ). Beach Hop goers frequently rock the courtyard or dance floor, making it a legendary spot during that annual car and music festival. Artists have praised the bar for being an intimate, energetic gig stop – patrons dancing next to the stage have been noted, something larger venues often lack.
It’s also simply practical and reliable. When Whangamatā’s population balloons each summer (from a few thousand to tens of thousands (www.ticketfairy.com )), locals and tourists alike know the Sports Bar will be open late with cold beers. It’s not flashy, but real estate ads highlight that it’s a “solid investment opportunity” and a reliable business (www.trademe.co.nz ). As one write-up put it, whether you’re ending a day on the surf or gearing up for a night out, this pub “delivers the quintessential coastal pub experience” (www.ticketfairy.com ). Good food, multiple screens, live tunes and friendly service make artists and audiences both love Whangamatā Sports Bar.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The bar is on one level with stepless entry, so wheelchair or stroller access is relatively easy (www.ticketfairy.com ). As a modern building it should have at least one accessible toilet stall. The outdoor courtyard is covered and flat, which is also convenient for mobility needs. If you have specific accessibility concerns (parking width, etc.), calling ahead to confirm details is wise.
What to bring: Don’t forget your photo ID (driver’s licence or passport) – the bar is fully licensed to serve alcohol, and staff will ask anyone who looks under 25 for ID (www.ticketfairy.com ). Bring either cash or a credit card (Visa/Mastercard) – both are accepted. You might also carry a small amount of cash (NZ$20–50) for table tips or if any small cover charge arises. There’s no formal cloakroom or locker, so keep belongings with you. Dress is very informal – gym shorts, T-shirts or jeans and thongs are perfectly fine. If you’ve been at the beach, make sure you cover up (by law you can’t stroll around in just swimwear after dark). On cold winter nights or if a band is playing, you might want a light sweater; when packed, the venue can get a little steamy.
Ages and restrictions: During the daytime and early evening, the place is family-friendly. You’ll see kids sharing meals with parents (the menu “suits all ages” (www.ticketfairy.com )). However, after dark Whangamatā Sports Bar transitions to an adults-only venue. Special events and late-night shows are generally 18+. For example, a January 2025 DJ party was advertised strictly 18+ (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you’re bringing teens or children, aim to arrive before 7–8 pm; after that the night scene starts and minors are usually not admitted. Also, no outside food or alcohol is allowed by law – you must buy from the bar. Finally, be prepared that NZ pubs are strict: anyone ordering alcohol will be asked to show ID, and staff will refuse service if you look underage.
Common pitfalls: Don’t assume you can get last-minute tickets to big shows – popular events do sell out quickly (www.ticketfairy.com ). And in peak summer, don’t leave parking to the last minute either – spaces can vanish fast. If you plan to drink and drive, note the courtesy shuttle may have limited hours, so confirm with staff and plan accordingly. If you carry a large bag or backpack, staff may ask to check it at the door (standard pub practice). Keep valuables on you, especially on crowded nights. Also, note there’s no coat check, so hang jackets on chairs or a rail. Secondly, charge your phone in advance – there aren’t charging plugs at tables. Finally, because cell service can be spotty in Whangamatā, don’t rely on streaming or heavy internet use on site.
Insider hints: A famous local tradition is the Thursday steak special . Many locals recommend ordering the porterhouse steak on Thursday night – it’s a bargain (around $18–19) and often sells out early (www.ticketfairy.com ). Also keep an eye out for happy-hour deals or weekly specials posted around the bar (some nights have drink specials or meal combos). If you’re attending a concert or busy weekend event, it sometimes helps to call a day ahead to check on arrangements. Lastly, embrace the Kiwi lingo: for example, people might say “arvo” to mean afternoon (as in “afternoon game on the screens”), and locals will refer to liquor stores as “bottle shops” when discussing buying supplies. Knowing terms like “car park” (for parking lot) can also come in handy around town (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy tickets for events at Whangamatā Sports Bar?
Ticketed events at Whangamatā Sports Bar are sold through the event promoter or online ticketing sites, not at a physical box office on site. Watch the bar’s social media or local ads for announcements. Then purchase through the recommended vendor (often an online platform). Most live gigs or DJ shows sell out quickly, so buy early.
Are tickets available at the door or only in advance?
For most big concerts or DJ nights you’ll need to buy advance tickets, as they often sell out. Sometimes a limited number of tickets may be held for sale at the door on the night of the event, but this is not guaranteed. Smaller, informal events (like weekly karaoke nights) usually have no cover charge or are paid at the door.
How much do tickets cost for shows at Whangamatā Sports Bar?
It varies by event. Local band nights and karaoke are often free or low-cost. For touring bands or DJs, tickets are typically in the mid-$20 NZD range (roughly $25–30) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Some community gigs may be cheaper, while headliner shows might be a bit higher. Always check the advertised price on the event listing.
What is the capacity and seating at Whangamatā Sports Bar?
The venue’s interior is about 480 m², which can hold roughly 150–200 people at full capacity (www.ticketfairy.com ). If seated dining is arranged, about 100–110 guests are comfortable (www.ticketfairy.com ). Seating is a mix of dining tables, booths and bar stools, with flexible open space on busy nights. There’s also a covered courtyard (“Garden Bar”) outside that can accommodate additional guests.
Does Whangamatā Sports Bar have its own box office?
No, there is no public box office at Whangamatā Sports Bar. The venue partners with event promoters and ticketing websites to sell tickets. For any ticketed concert or DJ event, watch local announcements or the bar’s website for where to buy (often an online ticketing site). You can also call the bar if unsure, but they typically redirect you to the proper seller.
Where can I park when visiting Whangamatā Sports Bar?
The bar has its own free parking lot at the rear of 100 Casement Road (www.ticketfairy.com ). There is also free street parking along Casement Road and neighboring Port Road (www.ticketfairy.com ). In peak summer or during big events, plan to arrive early, as those spots can fill up. If the on-site lot is full, try the surrounding streets; just avoid parking illegally. Remember to lock your car, as with anywhere.
Is parking free at Whangamatā Sports Bar?
Yes. Both the outdoor parking lot behind the bar and the nearby street parking are free of charge (www.ticketfairy.com ). However, all parking in Whangamatā is on a first-come basis. During busy summer nights or special events, it’s wise to show up early to secure a spot, as spaces can become scarce.
How can I reach Whangamatā Sports Bar by public transport?
Public transport is limited. There is no train to Whangamatā. The town is served by regional buses/coaches (e.g. from Auckland, Hamilton or Tauranga) which typically stop on Port Road near the Surf Club – about a 2–3 minute walk from the bar. Once in town, local taxis or rideshare can drop you at the door (and will pick up later). Keep in mind, taxi demand can be high late at night.
Is Whangamatā Sports Bar wheelchair accessible?
The bar is on a single level and has ramped entry, so getting inside is easy. As a modern venue, it should have at least one wheelchair-accessible restroom (www.ticketfairy.com ). The outdoor covered patio is also flat and suitable for wheelchairs or strollers. If you have specific needs (e.g. access details or seating arrangement), it’s best to call ahead and confirm with staff.
What are the opening hours of Whangamatā Sports Bar?
According to the official site, the bar opens at 11am on Sundays and Mondays, and at 10am Tuesday through Saturday (whangamatasportbar.com ). (Closing times can vary—often into the late evening on weekends or busy nights.) In practice, it’s open seven days a week from mid-morning onwards. For a specific event, check the bar’s social media or call to confirm closing time.
Is there a dress code at Whangamatā Sports Bar?
No formal dress code is enforced – resort casual is normal. Beachwear, shorts, T-shirts and sandals (“thongs”) are perfectly fine, especially during the daytime. If you arrive from the beach, you may want to cover up after dark; staff ask patrons not to wear swimwear alone once evening falls. Basically, feel free to come in comfortable casual clothing.
Can I pay with credit card or do I need cash?
Both payment methods are accepted. You can pay with major credit or debit cards (Visa, Mastercard etc.) or with New Zealand cash. The bar understands that some locals like to use cash at pubs, but a card will work fine too. It’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for small expenses or tips, but it’s not strictly necessary.
Are children allowed at Whangamatā Sports Bar, and are there any age restrictions?
During the daytime and early evening, it’s family-friendly and children are allowed (the menu even has kid-suitable options (www.ticketfairy.com )). However, after dark the bar becomes an adults’ venue. Nighttime concerts, DJ nights and parties are typically 18+, so minors are not admitted late at night. If bringing children, try to visit before 7–8pm.
Can I bring outside food or drinks to Whangamatā Sports Bar?
No. As a licensed bar and restaurant, Whangamatā Sports Bar does not allow any outside food or alcohol. All food and drinks must be purchased on site. This is standard for New Zealand pubs and restaurants. Bringing in your own snacks or beverages would be prohibited by policy and by law.
Is smoking allowed inside the venue?
No. Indoor smoking is prohibited by law in New Zealand public venues. Smoker patrons must go outside; the bar provides a small sheltered smoking area by the garden patio outside (www.ticketfairy.com ). Remember to step outside entirely to smoke.
What kind of events are typically held at Whangamatā Sports Bar?
A wide variety: the bar shows all major sports on TV (rugby, cricket, football, etc.) and also hosts entertainment events. Regular programming includes karaoke Fridays, quiz or trivia nights, and live music by local bands or DJs. Seasonal highlights include concerts during the Beach Hop festival and DJ parties. Check the bar’s event calendar – you’ll find anything from rock ‘n’ roll nights to country, reggae or DJ sets on any given week.
Where can I find nearby accommodation to Whangamatā Sports Bar?
Numerous motels and hotels are within a short walk. On Port Road just around the corner are Palm Pacific Motel, South Pacific Motel and Whangamatā Beach Motel (www.ticketfairy.com ). A bit further (still 5–10 minutes’ walk) is the Whangamatā Beach Hotel and several holiday parks. Because the bar is centrally located, almost any downtown lodging keeps you within easy distance for an after-show stroll home.
Are there any weekly food or drink specials at Whangamatā Sports Bar?
Yes. One famous special is the Thursday porterhouse steak dinner – locals claim it sells out quickly, as it’s a great value (around $18–19) (www.ticketfairy.com ). The bar may also promote midweek happy hour drink deals or other meal combos on its social media. Specials can change, so look for posters on the premises or ask staff about “specials” when you arrive.
Does Whangamatā Sports Bar have Wi-Fi or internet access?
Free Wi-Fi is not announced as a service at this pub. In practice, most patrons use their mobile data connection (4G/5G) when needed. Cell coverage in Whangamatā can be spotty, so don’t count on fast Wi-Fi – plan on using your own phone’s signal. If internet access is crucial, you may need to step outside to get better reception, or visit one of the neighbouring cafes.
Does Whangamatā Sports Bar host karaoke nights?
Yes. Karaoke is a regular and popular fixture, generally held on Friday nights. For example, they frequently advertise karaoke parties around key dates (Valentine’s Day, end-of-summer in late Feb, etc.). If you want to sing, just check the venue’s schedule or social media – karaoke night usually starts around 8pm and has no or low cover charge.
