About Butter Factory Lane
The Butter Factory Lane in Whangārei is a unique mixed-use venue – a pub, bistro and music space all rolled into one. Housed at 8 Butter Factory Lane in the historic Town Basin district, it occupies a century-old stone building that was once a 1920s butter processing plant (www.ticketfairy.com ). The interior still shows its industrial roots with exposed brick walls and vintage machinery on display, giving it an “industrial-chic” vibe (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Locally it’s known as a cultural hub – its own website calls it “a culture hub with events every week” and “locals supporting locals in a family friendly environment” (thebutterfactory.co.nz ). In short, the Butter Factory is a cornerstone of Whangārei’s nightlife and community scene. It has even been described in local media as “Northland’s premium live music, events, dining and social venue” (www.ticketfairy.com ). It opened in 2015 and quickly became a lively focal point for music and entertainment. Heritage groups point out that the Butter Factory building itself is historically significant – in fact Heritage Northland tours often include a behind-the-scenes look at Whangārei’s old Butter Factory site (www.nzherald.co.nz ).
Events and Programming
The Butter Factory runs events almost nightly. Live music is the main draw: local reviewers note there’s “live music at least 2 nights a week” spanning genres from rock and reggae to blues and acoustic singer-songwriters (www.ticketfairy.com ). In addition to concerts, the schedule is packed with open-mic evenings, jazz brunches, comedy nights, spoken-word poetry and even Māori-language “Te Reo” café events (www.ticketfairy.com ). Touring artists (often those stopping in Whangārei on a Northland tour) make regular appearances, and the venue considers itself Whangārei’s premier spot for both national and international acts. For example, New Zealand soul-rock singer Ladi6 performed a sold-out album-release show there in July 2025 (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Each month brings a mix of specialty nights – themed dance parties (e.g. retro 80s or house-music nights), quiz nights, tribute shows and more – ensuring a diverse line-up. In general, the calendar is busiest on weekends and most evenings, with doors often opening around 8–9 pm and music kicking off an hour later. Around the venue you’ll see notices for everything from reggae reggae jams to DJs to bi-lingual spoken word nights, reflecting its community-oriented programming.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Butter Factory events can be purchased online through the venue’s official outlets or authorized ticket sellers. The website and social media announce on-sale dates – popular shows often go on sale weeks in advance. The Butter Factory sometimes offers presales or discounts to mailing-list subscribers, so it pays to sign up or keep watch (www.ticketfairy.com ). For smaller shows, a limited number of tickets may be available at the door (cash or card), but this isn’t guaranteed – the space is relatively small, and big shows often sell out early (www.ticketfairy.com ). There is no traditional box office, but staff can help with information and can sometimes take phone bookings (though they can’t hold seats without payment) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Ticket prices vary by event. Entry to community events or local-band nights is usually modest – often under NZ$20, and sometimes free (e.g. Sunday lunch concerts) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Larger touring acts, dance parties or headline concerts typically run NZ$30–50. There are no VIP seating tiers; all tickets are general admission and admit you to the main floor area (www.ticketfairy.com ). Age-restricted shows (almost all evening concerts are R18) require valid photo ID – you will be asked to show ID if you appear under 25 (www.ticketfairy.com ). Some more popular events encourage buying in advance since they sell out, and the venue’s weekly gig guide notes “PatronScan ID scanners operate within our venue” (it’s voluntary, but you need to show ID on entry whether you use the scanner or not) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Seating and Layout
The Butter Factory’s layout is casual and open. On entering, you step into a pub-style bar and dining area, with a raised stage along one side wall and a large open floor in front of it for standing or dancing (www.ticketfairy.com ). There are high-top tables and bar stools around the perimeter, plus more seating at the back, but there is no fixed theatre seating or rows of chairs. The interior retains the old factory’s stone walls and arches, lending a cozy yet rustic charm (www.ticketfairy.com ). The venue can flex for different event sizes: some smaller acoustic or VIP sets even take place in a back “cave” room (a cellar-like lounge area), but most live shows use the whole ground floor space.
Because it’s general admission, arriving early lets you secure better spots. The sound system is oriented toward the center of the floor, so the best listening experience is actually a few rows back in the crowd rather than jammed right at the stage monitors (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you want a quieter view of the band, try sitting at a table along the sides or sipping a drink by the bar – here the floors are solid and music, while still loud, doesn’t reverberate as strongly as on the dance floor. If you’re there to dance, head toward the stage; if you’re there to socialize, find a seat on the periphery or step outside to the courtyard (covered by heaters on cool nights) (www.ticketfairy.com ). In short, there are no “bad” spots – everyone has a view, but for full volume stay toward the middle, and for chill conversation sit further out or outdoors.
Getting There and Parking
Butter Factory Lane is located just off the Town Basin waterfront at 8 Butter Factory Lane, Whangārei (behind the Quest Hotel at 58 Bank Street) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Because the venue is tucked down a short side lane, it can be easy to miss; look for the small alley behind Quest or follow signs from Bank Street. By car, the closest free parking is the Town Basin Car Park (Dent Street entrance) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Other long-term parking is available on Lower Dent St and Finlayson St. Street parking on Bank or the one-way lanes nearby is metered and fills up quickly on busy nights (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you’re coming from the north, entering Dent St from Bank and looping around is easiest.
Public transport is convenient: Whangārei’s free CityLink buses run frequently through the town basin. You can catch bus routes with stops at the Town Basin precinct and then walk a few minutes south on Dent or Bank to reach Butter Factory Lane (www.ticketfairy.com ). Taxis and rideshares can drop you at Butter Factory Lane directly or at the Quest Hotel entrance, but note there’s no dedicated drop-off zone – the driver will usually pull over at the curb (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you’re staying in town, the venue is only about a 5–10 minute walk from the central library/courthouse area. The nearby accommodations (Quest Whangārei or Distinction Hotel) are almost next door – so if you’re staying at either, you can walk over in a minute or two (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Inside the Venue
Inside, expect a lively pub atmosphere that transitions into a dance hall when the music starts. The bar counter is at the front area beneath the stage’s side, pouring a wide range of local craft beers on tap (around 16 rotated regularly) (www.ticketfairy.com ), as well as house-special cocktails, wines and ciders. The kitchen is open from lunchtime through late night, serving trademark pub fare – think steaks, gourmet burgers (buns and veggie patties are both available), ribs, pizzas and salads (www.ticketfairy.com ). Reviewers often praise the food here: generous portions like huge sirloin steaks or sammies are common, and even the kumara chips (sweet potato fries) get particular mention for quality (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). Everything from vegan and gluten-free dishes to hearty meat plates is on the menu (the vegan burger is a hit and gluten-free diets are well catered for) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Late-night menus remain full – you can order a snack or even a full meal after the band has started.
The atmosphere is casual and communal. A mature crowd mingles over meals early, and as the night goes on the place fills with music fans dancing on the floor. The sound inside is loud and direct – you can feel it pulsing through the wooden floor – so wearing ear plugs is even suggested if you’re sensitive (www.ticketfairy.com ). That said, the acoustics are typical pub-style: the speakers are pointed at the dance area, so standing a little back improves audio clarity (www.ticketfairy.com ). Walls of old stone and brick give the space “rustic charm” (www.ticketfairy.com ), and the friendly staff add to the laid-back vibe. Lighting is set up for each show – everything from simple stage spotlights to dynamic color washes and strobes – so every event has its own mood. The venue uses ID scanners for late shows (voluntary scanning but ID always checked) (www.ticketfairy.com ) and enforces a strict “18+ after dark” policy, creating a safe environment with professional security on the door.
On the practical side, facilities are straightforward. Bathrooms (standard male/female restrooms) are located on the ground floor – staff will direct you to the accessible toilet if needed (there is wheelchair-grade access via a side entry) (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). As noted earlier, there are coat hooks by the bar and exit for storage. Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the venue (www.ticketfairy.com ), so you can look up details or call an Uber from your table. Most customers find the service to be fast and helpful – one review even noted the owner gave a private tour of the building’s history to interested diners (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). In short, expect a friendly pub/bar environment that swings into a concert vibe – plan to grab your drink or a meal early, then merge into the crowd as the show begins.
Nearby Amenities
The Butter Factory Lane is right in the heart of Whangārei’s compact Town Basin area. Within a few blocks you have dozens of eateries and bars along the harbourfront and Bank Street. For pre-show dining there are cafes, bistros and ethnic restaurants – for example, you might find anything from Italian or Mexican fare to sushi or local seafood just a short walk away. Groceries and bottle shops are nearby if you need supplies. If you want to explore after a concert, the Town Basin waterfront has some lively bars and even late-night café options. For drinks before the show or late-night cocktails, the Quest Hotel’s lobby bar and the Distinction Hotel’s bar are both within an easy 3-minute walk (www.ticketfairy.com ). Other popular spots in the vicinity include a small brewery taproom and the Whangārei War Memorial Hall (often hosting events), though the Butter Factory itself often outshines them in atmosphere.
As for accommodation, the venue is extremely convenient. The Quest Whangārei (backing onto Butter Factory Lane) and the Distinction Whangārei (corner of Dent and Cameron streets) are literally next door (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you have an early or late show, you can stay at one of those hotels and walk in minutes to the venue. Otherwise the town centre is so compact that plenty of motels and guesthouses are only a 5–10 minute walk north of town.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Butter Factory Lane stands out because of its character and community role. First, its setting in an old butter-processing plant gives it a “soul” – attendees often say you can feel the history in the walls (www.ticketfairy.com ). The adaptive reuse of the building creates a compelling contrast: rough-hewn stone and steel beams meet neon lights and a modern sound system. This blend means every event feels unique – the same venue can host a thumping DJ night one evening and an intimate acoustic set the next. Locals especially appreciate how the venue “captures Northland’s charm” by showcasing homegrown talent. The owners emphasize supporting creativity: as one venue statement proudly notes, they’re “passionate supporters of our community, getting behind local initiatives, and showcasing & nurturing creative talent on stage” (thebutterfactory.co.nz ). This matters to the local music scene: many Northland bands debut songs here or use it as a stepping-stone to larger tours.
Signature features include the outdoor courtyard with heaters, which makes Butter Factory unusually comfortable even on chilly nights (www.ticketfairy.com ). Patrons often remark that visiting feels like joining a big extended family – the owners and staff know many regulars by name. For example, reviewers have noted the owner greeting guests, sharing local tips and even giving a guided tour of the venue’s history during a lunch visit (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ). The food also adds to the experience: people come for concerts but stay for the hearty meals (the big portions of steak or vegan burgers often get rave reviews (www.tripadvisor.co.nz )). In short, what makes Butter Factory Lane special is the way it weaves Whangārei’s history, food culture and nightlife into one venue. It’s more than just a bar or club – it’s a communal gathering place where each event feels like a personal, immersive experience (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.tripadvisor.co.uk ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility-wise, Butter Factory Lane is quite user-friendly. Wheelchair users can enter at street level via a ramp beside the Quest Hotel, and the ground floor is flat and unobstructed once inside (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you have mobility concerns, it’s best to call ahead – the staff are accustomed to helping patrons find the easiest route in. They do have an accessible restroom, which you can arrange to use via a side entrance (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). One important tip: bring a jacket if you plan to use the courtyard – even with heaters it can get cool at night (www.ticketfairy.com ). Also, if loud music bothers you, consider ear plugs (they’re often recommended by regulars, as rock and DJ events can be intense).
Practical advice: Always carry a photo ID, since any late show will require it for age verification (www.ticketfairy.com ). The venue’s staff operate an ID scanner for convenience, but even if you opt out of scanning, you must still show ID to enter. Cash can be handy (some smaller vendors around take cash, and it’s good for tipping) though cards are widely accepted for drinks and food (www.ticketfairy.com ). There’s no coat-check desk, so hang your jacket on the nearest hook by the bar or exit (www.ticketfairy.com ). If parking, remember that street parking is scarce; arrive a bit early or use the Town Basin lot (www.ticketfairy.com ). It’s often wise to arrive about an hour before the gig, since doors typically open then (www.ticketfairy.com ). Big events will queue up, so early arrival lets you grab great viewing spots.
In terms of what to expect at a show: most late events are strictly R18, so under-18s are not admitted after 10 pm (thebutterfactory.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Behavior standards are enforced: don’t act offensively or become very intoxicated, as staff will refuse service or remove troublemakers (thebutterfactory.co.nz ). You should also leave outside food or drinks (including alcohol) at home – management prohibits bringing in outside food or booze (thebutterfactory.co.nz ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Lastly, have fun and mingle! The vibe is casual and friendly (dress is casual – just avoid anything overtly provocative or gang-related) and live music is meant to be enjoyed together. If you do all that, you’ll fit right into the family-like atmosphere that regulars love at Butter Factory Lane.
How can I purchase tickets for events at Butter Factory Lane?
Tickets are usually sold online via the venue’s official channels or authorised sellers (e.g. site announcements) (www.ticketfairy.com ). For some smaller gigs, a limited number of tickets might be available at the door (cash or card), but this isn’t guaranteed. It’s safest to buy in advance – the Butter Factory often announces sales weeks ahead for big shows (www.ticketfairy.com ).
What are the usual ticket prices or cover charges?
Prices vary by event. Local band nights and weekly theme events often cost under NZ$20, and sometimes entry is free for community concerts (www.ticketfairy.com ). Larger touring acts, tribute bands or dance parties tend to be in the NZ$30–50 range (www.ticketfairy.com ). Sunday or mid-week lunches can be very cheap or even free if there’s live music. Check each event’s listing for the specific pricing.
Is seating reserved at Butter Factory Lane?
No – seating is general admission. The venue has a casual open-plan layout (stage on one side and standing/dancing area in front), with some loose tables and stools around the edges (www.ticketfairy.com ). All tickets admit you to this common space; there are no assigned seats or VIP sections (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Does Butter Factory Lane have any presales or discounts?
Yes. The venue sometimes offers presale tickets or subscriber discounts. Subscribing to their mailing list or following social media is a good idea, since announcements and special codes tend to pop up there (www.ticketfairy.com ). Also check with the box office – on occasion they provide advance deals (though they can’t hold tickets without payment) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
What is the exact location, and how do I find parking?
Butter Factory Lane is at 8 Butter Factory Lane, Whangārei, tucked behind the Quest Hotel on Bank Street (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you’re driving, the closest free parking is the Town Basin Car Park (enter from Dent Street) (www.ticketfairy.com ). There’s also paid parking nearby on Dent, Bank and Finlayson Streets, though spaces fill up fast. Parking in the main lots and walking a few minutes is common. Plan to arrive 15–30 minutes early on busy nights so you have time to park and get in.
How can I get to Butter Factory Lane by public transport?
Whangārei’s free CityLink buses run through the Town Basin area. Get off at the Town Basin stop and walk a block or two to Butter Factory Lane (www.ticketfairy.com ). Taxis and rideshares can drop you off at Bank Street near Quest Hotel or directly onto Butter Factory Lane (though note there’s no formal taxi rank – the driver will stop at the kerb) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
What is the seating layout inside the venue?
Inside, the front door opens into a pub-style bar and dining area. The stage is off to one side of this area, with a large open space in front of it for standing and dancing (www.ticketfairy.com ). Scattered tables and high stools line the sides, but most people gather on the floor. There’s also a sizable outdoor courtyard with tables for extra seating, especially on warm nights (www.ticketfairy.com ). The stone walls are exposed throughout, adding to the venue’s character.
Where should I stand or sit for the best view and sound?
The acoustic sweet spot is usually a few steps back from the stage, roughly in the center of the dance floor – that’s where the PA speakers project the clearest sound (www.ticketfairy.com ). If you want to socialize, choose a table or stool along the edges or head out to the courtyard – you’ll hear the music just fine but at a more relaxed volume. Standing right by the stage monitors is very loud and generally best for die-hard dancers; for a balanced experience, aim for the center. Overall, the space is small enough that most places have a good view of the stage.
What are the age restrictions and ID requirements?
The Butter Factory Lane becomes 18+ from about 10:00 pm onwards (thebutterfactory.co.nz ). Most late-night concerts are strictly R18. Patrons under 18 are only allowed during daytime (when the venue is more family-friendly). If you appear under 25, be prepared to show photo ID (driver’s license or passport) to verify your age (www.ticketfairy.com ). The venue uses a voluntary ID scanning system, but even if you decline scanning you must still present ID to enter (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Can I bring my own food or drinks?
No. By law, the venue is licensed and management has a strict policy: you cannot bring outside alcohol or food (thebutterfactory.co.nz ). Any contraband (like outside alcohol, weapons or drugs) can lead to refusal of entry or ejection (thebutterfactory.co.nz ). All drinks and meals must be purchased inside the Butter Factory.
Are there vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free menu options?
Yes. The Butter Factory menu specifically notes vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free options available on request. Regular reviews confirm they cater well to those diets (www.ticketfairy.com ). Even the house vegan burger (with plant-based patty and toppings) is so popular it’s frequently praised by guests (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Is there Wi-Fi and other amenities on site?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the venue (www.ticketfairy.com ). The bathrooms are located on the ground floor near the back; staff can direct you to the accessible restroom if needed. There is an informal coat rack (just hang your jacket on a hook) (www.ticketfairy.com ). You’ll also find multiple bar service points inside and out, and the outdoor courtyard has heaters for cooler weather (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes – entry is at street level via the Quest Hotel’s basement ramp, and once inside the floors are flat (www.ticketfairy.com ). There are a very few small steps at secondary exits, but staff can guide wheelchairs around them. The venue’s accessible toilet is on the same level and can be used with staff assistance (www.ticketfairy.com ). Calling ahead is recommended if you have specific access needs, as the team is happy to help.
What forms of payment are accepted?
Both cash and cards are accepted. It’s handy to carry a bit of cash (for tipping staff or small purchases), but credit/debit cards are fine for buying drinks and food at the bar and kitchen. You will especially need a card or cash to buy tickets on the door if you are waiting to purchase entry on the night.
What should I bring to a show, and when should I arrive?
Bring your valid photo ID (driver’s licence or passport) if you plan to attend evening events (www.ticketfairy.com ), as well as money or card for food/drinks. If you use the courtyard, a jacket might be smart (it can get chilly despite the outdoor heaters) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Both headphones or disposable earplugs are good to have if you’re sensitive to loud music. Doors usually open about one hour before the show starts (www.ticketfairy.com ). To claim a good spot or avoid queues, arrive at opening time rather than just before the band plays (www.ticketfairy.com ).
Are children or minors allowed inside?
Children and teens are welcome during daytime hours, but after about 10 pm the venue becomes adults-only. Specifically, any event after 10 pm is 18+ only (thebutterfactory.co.nz ). This means if you bring kids, they will not be allowed inside once it switches to night-time trading. It’s best to check the event’s age policy in advance; if it’s listed as R18, no under-18 will be admitted.
