About Paraoa Brewing Co. and Events Centre
Paraoa Brewing Co. & Events Centre is a modern gastropub and live-music venue in Stanmore Bay on Auckland’s Whangaparāoa Peninsula (Hibiscus Coast). Opened in 2023 by local entrepreneur Zenice “Zen” Gujarathi, it transformed a former appliance store into a spacious community hub. The venue spans about 700 square metres and seats roughly 450 people (with room for several hundred more standing). Inspired by its Māori name – Whangaparāoa means “bay of whales” – the brewery has a marine-toy theme (house beers include Bowhead Lager and Orca IPA) that nods to the local orca and dolphin visitors. Under the slogan “Our house is your house,” Paraoa combines craft beer and Asian-fusion bistro food with a lively pub atmosphere. It features pool tables, dartboards and couches alongside the stage, making it a casual social spot as much as a concert hall. As a purpose-built events centre with concert-grade sound and lighting, it quickly became the entertainment hotspot that many on the Coast felt was missing.
Architecturally, Paraoa Brewing Co. is a sleek, modern structure with high exposed ceilings and large windows overlooking Whangaparāoa Bay. Warm wood accents and ambient stage lighting give it a contemporary Kiwi pub feel. The long bar (lined with about six to eight craft taps plus wine and spirits) anchors one side of the hall, while polished concrete floors and rock music photography (from legends like Hendrix and The Doors) keep the vibe energetic. One entire side has panoramic bay views that make early evenings and sunny lunches especially nice. Above all, the venue’s design is open and inclusive: there is no balcony or VIP section – just a big flat-floor hall where everyone mingles. In short, Paraoa combines a friendly, family-friendly pub setting with the infrastructure of a live music hall, making it a notable new addition to the local scene.
Events and Programming
Paraoa Brewing Co. features a packed, diverse calendar of events almost every night. Weekly offerings include Latin dance classes (such as salsa and bachata on weeknights) and social dance evenings, plus pub quizzes, karaoke and poker nights. Popular recurring shows range from drag bingo/brunch to family-friendly kids’ concerts. Live music is a cornerstone: expect everything from local cover bands and singer-songwriters to full rock or reggae bands. The venue has hosted acts like the Jordan Luck Band, Capital Theatre, Dirty Happys, Brian Smith Quintet and multi-genre nights with artists such as King Kapisi. There are also cultural nights – for example, ceilidh (Irish dance and music) evenings and reggae or world-music shows. On major dates (like New Year’s Eve) the venue throws big themed parties, and sports on big screens (rugby or football matches) are shown regularly.
Shows at Paraoa range from free or casual-entry community events up to ticketed concerts in the $15–$50 range (plus fees). Midweek cultural nights often have low cover charges or even free entry (sometimes a koha donation), while headline concerts on weekends are usually paid. Ticketed events typically occur in the evenings (7–8pm start), with most acting as general admission standing-room or mix of standing and table seating. Notable highlights include occasional NZ tribute acts (King Kapisi’s hip-hop-reggae nights, or ABBA and Beatles tribute bands), comedy performances, and charity gigs. Because this venue is new and popular, many ticketed events sell out early – for example, a Jordan Luck Band show in 2023 was sold out well in advance. In summary, Paraoa’s programming offers something for everyone – from DJs and blues sessions to rock gigs and Latin socials – with a friendly, community focus.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for concerts and special events at Paraoa Brewing Co. are sold online rather than at a box office. The venue typically announces show dates on its website and social media, and tickets go on sale through the venue’s site or major New Zealand ticketing services. It’s wise to buy early: popular gigs often sell out quickly. General admission ticket prices vary by act – simple local gigs can be as low as $10–$15, while bigger national acts or themed shows are usually in the $20–$40 range (plus booking fees). Children’s events and dances may have nominal charges or a donation (“koha”) at the door.
There is no physical box office window for day-of sales, so plan to print or download e-tickets in advance. If a show isn’t sold out online, a limited number of tickets (or standing room spots) may be available at the door, but queues can form for popular shows. All tickets are usually non-refundable unless an event is cancelled by Paraoa (in which case a full refund or credit is offered). When attending, bring valid photo ID (driver licence or passport) for age verification at the bar. Early arrival is best: doors often open about 30–45 minutes before showtime, allowing you to secure a choice spot, buy dinner or drinks and avoid last-minute lines. Overall, the best booking strategy is to watch the Paraoa events calendar, move quickly to buy tickets when announced, and arrive early on event night.
Seating and Layout
The main performance space in Paraoa Brewing Co. is a single large hall with a stage at one end. It’s essentially a flat-floor layout with no balconies or separate seating tiers. On most concert nights, the crowd stands in front of the stage or dances; however, there are café-style tables and chairs along the sides and rear, plus a cozy lounge area with couches for a relaxed view. Standard dining tables and high-tops near the bar serve daytime diners as well as show-goers who prefer a seat. Because the hall is open-plan, sight lines are generally good – seats anywhere in front of or beside the stage offer clear views. The best experience for live music is down front (nearest the stage), but even the sides get good sound coverage. If you want a quieter evening or a view of the bay, the rear corner couches and tables by the windows are comfortable spots (though they are farther from the performance sound).
The sound and tech setup is professional: Paraoa boasts a modern L-Acoustics house PA (with Focus ARCS tops & SB218 subs) and a 32-channel Midas M32 digital mixing desk. Five JBL stage monitors support performers. This means the sound is loud and clear throughout the venue – there really aren’t “dead spots” as the speakers are placed to cover left and right of stage. Lighting is also concert-standard, with spotlights and ambient stage lights provided by College Hill Productions. As a rule, there is no reserved seating or VIP section – events are general admission. You’re free to move around during a show (just be considerate of those around you). Because the floor is flat, wearing comfy shoes is recommended if you plan to stand or dance. (Tip: pickle-ready musicians sometimes recommend bringing earplugs if you’re sensitive to loud bass.)
Getting There and Parking
Paraoa Brewing Co. is located at 719A Whangaparāoa Road in Stanmore Bay, Whangaparāoa Peninsula (Auckland). If driving from central Auckland, take State Highway 1 north and exit at Silverdale. Follow Stanmore Bay Road east toward the coast; Paraoa is on the south side of Whangaparāoa Road, by the Coast Plaza shops (Countdown grocery) and near the water.
Parking is generally plentiful and free. A large car park for the Coast Plaza mall (countdown supermarket) sits adjacent to the venue, and additional street parking is available along Whangaparāoa Road. On busy event nights the plaza lot can fill, but nearby street parking is usually tolerated outside any marked no-parking zones. If those fill up, early arrival is key or consider carpooling with friends. Paraoa does not have a dedicated lot of its own, so use the shared car-park facilities. For accessible parking, some marked spaces are available in the Coast Plaza car park close to the front door.
Public transport: Auckland Transport buses 982 and 983 stop nearby. The closest bus stop is “Stanmore Bay Leisure Centre” on Whangaparāoa Road – a 5–10 minute walk from the venue. These bus routes run along the Peninsula, linking Stanmore Bay to Silverdale and Ōrewa (and from there to wider AT networks into Auckland). From the city, one can take the Northern Express (NX1) to Silverdale and transfer to a 982/983. Alternatively, commuter ferries run from downtown Auckland to Gulf Harbour (on Whangaparāoa) during the week; from Gulf Harbour it’s a short taxi or rideshare ride south to Stanmore Bay. Rideshares (Uber/Zoomy/Taxify) can drop off at the venue entrance – note that the semi-rural location means wait times may be a few extra minutes. Late-night return options are more limited: AT’s last NX bus from downtown North Shore leaves around 10–11pm, so after-hours people typically rely on driving, taxis, or rideshares. (No trains run on Whangaparāoa.)
Inside the Venue
Walking into Paraoa Brewing Co., expect a warm, buzzing social atmosphere. The bar area stretches along one wall, with gleaming taps pouring the house-made beers and local craft brews. Shelves of wines and spirits line the back, and bartenders pour tall glasses for guests. The restaurant menu (Asian-fusion bistro style) offers hearty pub fare with a gourmet twist, created by chef Cameron Knox. Customers rave about highlights like the signature apple-crumble dessert and inventive cocktails (for example, a popular peanut-butter-whiskey shot). Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are clearly marked. Because the kitchen is busy on show nights, main meals can take 20–30 minutes, so ordering food as soon as you arrive is wise.
The dining and lounge seating is casual: expect a mix of bar stools, square dining tables, and comfy couches. Many patrons come early for dinner or midweek quiz nights, and pay-the-door during shows. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout, and cell coverage is strong (Vodafone and Spark all work well inside). Restrooms are clean and include at least one accessible stall. There is no formal coat-check, but staff will usually help hang jackets behind the bar. The venue enforces standard NZ pub rules: no outside alcohol or glassware allowed inside, and smoking or vaping only permitted in a designated outdoor area (usually a side patio). Photography with phones or point-and-shoot cameras is acceptable for personal use, but professional DSLR or video cameras require prior permission. In sum, Paraoa’s interior feels like a large modern pub – you’ll be greeted by friendly, casually-dressed staff as you enter, giving the place a relaxed “neighbourhood hangout” vibe.
Nearby Amenities
Paraoa Brewing Co. sits in Stanmore Bay’s small town centre, with a range of shops and dining options within walking distance. Directly across Whangaparāoa Road is the Coast Plaza retail precinct – anchored by a Countdown supermarket – where you can find takeaways, a pharmacy, and cafés for last-minute needs. For sit-down dining near the venue, choices include:
The Good Home – A neighbouring gastropub known for its own craft beers, pizzas and pub fare.Borrowman & The Bad Apple – A modern café-restaurant offering fresh breakfasts, sushi and dinner options.Cove Eatery – Offers classic fish-and-chips and pizza takeout a short stroll away.Paprika Bar & Restaurant – Serving authentic South Indian cuisine (curries, biryanis) in the nearby strip.L&G Kitchen – A quick stop for Japanese sushi or Korean street-food style dishes (ramen, kimbap).JAC’s Cafe – A small cafe on Main Street with coffee, sandwiches and sushi rolls.McDonald’s (Stanmore Bay) – About 1 km north for late-night snack cravings.
Accommodation is sparse on the Peninsula itself. There are no hotels in Stanmore Bay, so overnight visitors typically stay in nearby towns like Orewa or Silverdale (about 10–15 km away). Orewa has motels and a few serviced apartments, while Silverdale (next to the motorway) has a couple of hotels and more restaurants. Alternatively, local homestays or Airbnbs can sometimes be found around Whangaparāoa or Gulf Harbour. If you plan to make an evening of it, consider booking in Orewa or arranging a designated driver, since public transport is limited late at night.
After-show nightlife is fairly quiet in Stanmore Bay itself. Paraoa often serves as the last stop for the evening here. If you want more bars or clubs afterwards, you’d likely need to travel by car or taxi to Orewa. Otherwise, enjoy a nightcap on site or head home via rideshare. In any case, the Coast Plaza parking remains open past closing, and the shops there (like Countdown) close around early evening, so access is straightforward before or after a show.
What Makes This Venue Special
Paraoa Brewing Co. stands out as a cultural focal point on the Hibiscus Coast. Unlike anywhere else in Whangaparāoa, it combines craft brewing, a quality kitchen and a full live events stage under one roof. Its extensive renovations feature large bay windows that literally frame Whangaparāoa Bay, and the whale-themed branding celebrates local Māori heritage (Whangaparāoa and the region’s marine life). Inside, the live-music vibe is unmistakable: the wooden dance floor, rock art on the walls and a prominent stage make it feel more like an intimate concert hall than a typical suburban pub.
The venue’s inclusive “social house” ethos is often mentioned by local press and owners. It welcomes families during the day and party-goers at night, and hosts events from kids’ concerts to adult dance parties. Owner Zen’s vision of a community hub appears to have come true: he re-invested in the hospitality side (bringing in chef Cameron Knox) and the tech side (hiring College Hill for sound and light), all while keeping prices affordable. Locally, Paraoa is praised as “the entertainment venue the Coast needed.” Community gatherings like quiz fundraisers or charity gigs have found a home here. In short, its blend of award-calibre food, rotating house beers, friendly staff and eclectic events – all in a purpose-built space – give it a unique charm that locals and visiting bands both appreciate. Many say that Paraoa Brewing Co. feels like the best of a downtown Auckland bar transplanted to a beachside community.
Visitor Tips and Information
Dress Code: No need for fancy attire. This is a laid-back venue – casual clothing (jeans, t-shirts, smart casual) is perfectly fine even on event nights.ID & Age Restrictions: Always bring a photo ID. Anyone ordering alcohol must show valid ID (NZ driver licence or passport). Some night shows (usually after 8pm on weekends) may be R18 – check the event listing. Afternoon and family shows are all-ages.Entry & What to Bring: For ticketed events, print or save your e-ticket on your phone. Electronic tickets are accepted at the door scan. You might be asked for your name or ID when redeeming tickets. Outside food/drinks are not allowed. Staff do a quick walk-through bag check (minimal security). You can bring your own earplugs if you prefer lower noise.Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair-accessible. There’s step-free entry from the parking area and an accessible toilet. Most of the floor is flat and roomy once inside. If mobility is a concern, arriving early to get a good spot is a good idea. The management is generally happy to accommodate special needs (just let them know when booking).Payment & Prices: The bar and kitchen take both cash and cards (Visa, Mastercard). Drinks range roughly NZ$10–$20 each (house craft beers often around $10). Mains run about $15–$30. The kitchen serves dinner and late-night meals on show nights, but you can also lick up bar snacks like fries and pizzas. Free tap water is available at the bar.Arrival Time: For dinner or free events, anytime during opening hours is fine. For ticketed concerts, doors usually open 30–45 minutes before showtime, so arriving early lets you grab a seat or table and avoid queues. On a busy Friday/Saturday, aim to arrive at least 15 minutes before the doors open to secure a good spot near the stage or to get a drink before kickoff.Parking: The nearest parking is at the Coast Plaza. If that is full, try street parking nearby or southeast toward the yacht club (always check for any residential or no-parking signs). The road is generally safe, but if you plan to drink, you might want to arrange a ride in advance.No Smoking Inside: By law, smoking or vaping is strictly prohibited indoors at Paraoa. A small sheltered outdoor smoking area is provided near the side entrance – if you smoke, step outside there. Keep in mind you may step over cobblestones outside.Weather & Roof: The events hall is fully indoor and weather-proof, so shows go on rain or shine. If you’re waiting outside, the entrance area has some cover, but it can still be chilly on damp nights, so boa an arvo jacket just in case.Lost & Found: If something is misplaced inside, call or email the venue soon after (they keep lost items at the bar for a short period). For safety, watch your belongings; the staff is friendly but it’s a busy pub environment.General Atmosphere: Paraoa is known for its friendly, communal vibe. Staff are quick with a smile and regulars call it the “local living room.” Conversations, clinks and music mix freely – it’s fine to chat with people, enjoy the band, or just relax with family. If you want the full experience, strike up a conversation on the couch or try the pool tables during breaks!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Paraoa Brewing Co. located?
The address is 719A Whangaparāoa Road, Stanmore Bay, Whangaparāoa Peninsula, Auckland 0930. It’s on the waterfront side of the main road (opposite the Coast Plaza shops). The simplest driving directions are: take the Northern Motorway (SH1) north, exit at Silverdale and follow signs to Stanmore Bay. The venue entrance is adjacent to the Countdown supermarket car park.
What is the venue capacity?
Paraoa Brewing Co. covers about 700 square metres of space. Seating is arranged in pub-style tables and a lounge, accommodating roughly 450 people at a time. For standing-room concerts the venue can hold a few hundred more on the floor. In practice, expect a packed house to be around 500 people on busy nights.
What types of events does Paraoa Brewing Co. host?
Practically everything! The venue runs live music of all genres (rock, pop, jazz, reggae, country, DJ dance parties), comedy nights, charity benefits, karaoke and trivia contests. Regular weekly events include Latin dance classes (salsa and bachata), Celtic ceilidhs, drag bingo/brunches, quiz nights and sports-screening nights. They also host special one-off shows like tribute concerts (ABBA, Beatles, etc.), themed club nights, and kids’ concerts during school holidays. Check the Paraoa events page for the latest calendar of upcoming shows (updated monthly).
How do I buy tickets and how much do they cost?
Tickets are sold online. You can usually purchase them via a link on the Paraoa website or through New Zealand ticketing services. There is no on-site box office. Prices vary: small acts might charge $10–$20, while bigger bands or tribute shows are often $20–$40 in advance. Booking fees apply. Popular shows often sell out, so it’s best to buy early. If you miss out online, you can try your luck at the door (cash only) a bit before showtime, but that’s not guaranteed.
Is the venue seated or general admission?
Seating at Paraoa is very flexible. For concerts, there is no assigned seating – it’s general admission, so you can stand anywhere or choose a table if available. The space has mixed seating: some stand-up tables and couches on the sides, plus regular dining tables. On a non-concert day you could sit anywhere, but for busy live shows the front area is usually open for standing. If you want a guaranteed seat, arrive early to claim a table along the edges or lounge area.
Are children allowed at events?
Children are welcome during daytime and early-evening events and when accompanying adults during dinner. The venue itself is family-friendly (they even host kids’ concerts and afternoon ceilidhs). However, many late-night shows and weekend DJ nights are age-restricted (18+), as posted on the event listing. Always check if a show is marked R18. If it’s a licensed event in the late evening, children won’t be allowed in. Paraoa has an accessible layout for strollers during allowed times.
Is there parking, and is it free?
Yes, parking is free. The main parking is the Coast Plaza car park (next to Countdown) right beside the venue. There are also street parking spots on Whangaparāoa Road. On very busy nights overflow is commonly handled by local authorities through adjacent lots or street parking, but always watch for any restricted zones. If the main lot is full, you may find spots a block away. Accessible parking spaces are provided near the Plaza and within a short walk of the entrance.
What public transport serves Paraoa Brewing Co.?
The venue is accessible by bus. AT buses 982 and 983 run along Whangaparāoa Road connecting Stanmore Bay with Silverdale and Orewa. The closest stop is Stanmore Bay Leisure Centre (a 5-10 minute walk to Paraoa). From central Auckland, catch the Northern Express (NX1) to Silverdale Bus Station and transfer to 982/983. There’s also a commuter ferry to Gulf Harbour (on the peninsula) – from there take a short bus (982) or taxi down to Paraoa. Uber or rideshares can also get you most of the way – set the dropoff for 719A Whangaparāoa Rd.
Are there restaurants and cafes nearby?
Yes. The Coast Plaza across the road has food options like a supermarket, takeaways and cafés. Within a few minutes’ walk you’ll find The Good Home (gastropub with beer and pizzas), Borrowman & The Bad Apple (café/restaurant), Cove Eatery (fish & chips, pizza), and JAC’s cafe (coffee and light meals). A short stroll also reaches South Indian restaurants Paprika and Raviz. For a quick bite, there’s a McDonald’s about 1km north. Most of those places close by early evening, so for dinner it’s safest to arrive early or dine at Paraoa itself before a show.
Does Paraoa Brewing Co. brew its own beer on site?
Paraoa has its own "house" beers, but they’re currently contract-brewed off-site in Silverdale. Beers like Bowhead Lager and Orca IPA are branded to the venue. The bar also offers a rotating selection of local craft pints from nearby breweries. There are plans to install a brewhouse in the future, but for now the signature beers are brewed for them elsewhere.
Is there a dress code or age requirement?
There is no formal dress code at Paraoa. People generally wear casual or smart-casual attire (jeans, shirts, etc.), and smart tops can go with knits or jean wear. Don’t wear beachwear or anything offensive, but otherwise you’ll fit right in. Regarding age: if you’re coming for the pub or early-evening events, all ages are welcome. For late-night concerts or club nights, it’s typically 18+ once the show is on and alcohol is served. Always check the event listing — it will clearly say if an event is R18 only.
Are photography and video allowed?
Personal photography is fine. You can use your phone or a small camera to take photos or video for personal memories. However, professional photography or large video cameras typically need prior permission from the venue. In practice, snaps of your group or the band (if on stage) are usually no problem. Flash is generally discouraged during performances (to respect fellow audience members).
