About The Butter Factory
The Butter Factory is Whangārei’s premier live music pub and bistro, housed in a renovated 1920s butter-processing plant . It’s a century-old stone building now turned vibrant bar, “industrial-chic” in style . The venue is known for its friendly, laid-back vibe and craft-beer focus. It’s family-owned but doubles as a late-night music hub: local guides note it captures “Northland’s charm,” staying cool in summer and cozy in winter . Signature features include exposed brick walls, vintage machinery on display, and a sunny open courtyard . With a revolving tap list and creative cocktail menu, it draws both foodies and music fans alike. In fact, when the business was listed for sale in 2023, it was proudly billed as “Northland’s premium live music, events, dining and social venue” . Established in 2015, it’s now a cornerstone of Whangārei’s nightlife, blending historical character with modern entertainment.
Events and Programming
The Butter Factory runs events almost every night of the week. Resonating with its community focus, it hosts open mic sessions, jazz nights, comedy shows, spoken-word poetry and even Mā ori-language “Te Reo” and beer-tasting nights . Live music is the star attraction: local reviews say there are “live music at least 2 nights a week” spanning genres from indie rock and reggae to acoustic singer-songwriters . Touring New Zealand bands and national acts frequently stop here (promotions boast that Butter Factory is “Whangarei’s premier venue and first choice for local, national and international artists” ). Monthly community events are common – for example, regular comedy-club shows and an occasional quiz night or themed DJ party keep the schedule lively. Cover charges and ticket prices vary widely: small local band nights can be quite cheap (often under NZ$20), while big name tribute bands or dance DJs might run NZ$30–60. Doors for concerts typically open around 8–9 pm (with shows starting an hour later) and many events are age-restricted (18+), so check the listing. Ticket prices and on-sale dates are announced via local media or the venue’s own notices; popular gigs often sell out in advance. Typical entry fees range from modest (for weekly or local acts) up to moderate levels for headline shows.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Butter Factory shows are sold through the venue and authorised sellers. One usually buys them online via official outlets or sometimes at the box office (when available) www.ticketfairy.com . Signs or social media announcements will state when tickets go on sale – often weeks before a big concert. For smaller events, some tickets might be available on the door when you arrive, but this is not guaranteed. Because the space is relatively small, it’s wise to purchase early: shows often sell out. There are no special “VIP” seating tiers; all tickets simply admit you to the general admission area. Pricing tiers (where used) depend on the performer. As a rough guide, cover charges for local bands or themed nights can be under $20, while popular touring acts or all-night dance parties may be $30–$50. Families and community events (like Sunday lunches) might even be free or very low-cost. If the show is ticketed and age-restricted (usually R18), bring valid photo ID – the door staff may scan it to verify your age . The Butter Factory sometimes offers presales or discounts to mailing-list subscribers, so it pays to watch for announcements or phone the box office (though staff can't reserve without payment).
Seating and Layout
The Butter Factory’s interior is mostly open-plan, with no fixed theatre seating. The main stage faces a standing-room area and some high-top tables, creating a casual pub-concert environment. The friendly layout “encourages mingling and dancing,” yet there are plenty of quiet corners if you just want to sit and chat www.ticketfairy.com . To one side is a dining section with tables and bar stools, and above you’ll notice remnants of the old factory (e.g. gears or stone arches) that add to the charm . Outdoors, a large paved courtyard offers extra seating and garden-style tables – this sunlit patio is “hugely popular” on warm evenings . In practice, most planned music gigs are unreserved general admission, so arriving early lets you claim a front-row spot or a table close to the stage. Some small shows may use the side “cave” room (a cellar-like area) for acoustic sets or VIP gatherings, but for larger concerts the entire ground floor is used. The acoustics are typical for a pub: music is loud and direct (you may feel it pulsing through the floor), and speakers are aimed at the dance floor. If you prefer sipping a drink and conversing, try sitting on the periphery by the bar or outside. The best listening experience is near the center, where monitors and the PA sound is cleanest; avoid standing too close to the stage monitors if you’re sensitive to volume. Reacting spaces: many fans stand up front at energetic shows, while calmer events allow seating. Overall, there are no “bad” spots – every angle has a decent view – but for dancing pick an open spot mid-room, and for a relaxed vibe pull up a chair at a back table or at the bar.
Getting There and Parking
The Butter Factory’s address is 8 Butter Factory Lane , tucked into the Whangārei Town Basin area near Bank Street (opposite the Quayside). Because it’s on a short side-lane behind the Quest Hotel (58 Bank Street), it’s easy to miss; in fact some visitors report using the hotel’s elevator to reach the basement exit and then entering Butters from a few metres away . If driving yourself, the nearest free parking is the Town Basin Car Park (enter from Dent Street) . That lot and a couple of others on Lower Dent or Finlayson Street are the closest long-term bays. Limited metered street parking is available on Bank, Dent and the surrounding one-way lanes, but spaces fill up quickly on busy nights. Many concertgoers park in the main car parks and walk 3–5 minutes. As an alternative, Whangārei’s CityLink bus service has frequent routes through town; get off at the Town Basin stop and walk south to Bank Street. Uber and taxis can drop you at Butter Factory Lane or right in front of the Quest Hotel entrance. Ridership note: there’s no dedicated drop-off bay, so plan to wait at a kerb spot. The venue is flat and well lit after dark. On foot, it’s 5–10 minutes from Whangārei’s central library or courthouse area. If you stay at a nearby hotel (Quest or Distinction), it’s just a short walk away. Overall, allow extra time to find parking or navigate the one-way streets around the Town Basin, especially on weekends or event nights.
Inside the Venue
On entry, you’ll find a classic pub-room atmosphere with a mix of relaxed and energetic spaces. A helpful layout summary: the front doors open into the main bar/dining area. To one side is the stage; beyond that the floor is open for standing. Walls of the old factory stone remain exposed, giving the interior “rustic charm” . The Butter Factory is also a full-service bistro. The kitchen is open for lunch and dinner – from brunch on, you can order gourmet pub grub (burgers, ribs, pizzas, salads) through closing . Even late at night the full menu is available, so feel free to grab a meal or snack before or during a show (for example, their signature steak or vegan burger gets rave reviews ). Gluten-free and vegan diets are well catered for in the menu . The drinks list is extensive: there are roughly 16 rotating taps pouring local craft beers , plus a selection of regional wines, ciders and non-alcoholic options. Freshly brewed coffee and homemade sodas are available whenever the kitchen is open . Don’t miss the fruity cocktails either – bartenders here often mix “killer” house specials. The bar area is open 11 am through late; weekdays you’ll find lunch-hour specials, while nightly concerts often have late-night drink deals. A highlight for groups is the sizeable outdoor courtyard – it’s equipped with heaters so it’s comfortable even on cooler nights .
Drinks can be ordered at several bar points, but expect noise during peak gigs. Bathrooms are standard gendered restrooms off the side, and staff can advise if there’s an accessible toilet (most patrons report level access through one of the side entrances). Coat check is informal – you can usually hang jackets on hooks near the bar or by the exit. Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout , so you can check show details or call rideshares from inside. Service is friendly and fast; reviews often praise the helpful staff . As expected, the Butter Factory uses ID scanning for late-night events. Their weekly gig guide notes “PatronScan ID scanners operate within our venue” – it’s voluntary, but if you decline scanning you must still show an ID to enter . In practice, just bring a valid driver’s license or passport if you look under 25, and entry will be smooth. Note: most late shows are strictly R18, so no one under 18 is admitted after doors open in the evening. Security is firm but friendly, aiming for a safe environment. Photography is generally allowed only with phones – professional cameras or video recording is usually not permitted without permission. Overall, expect a casual pub ambience that rapidly comes alive when the music starts. The venue encourages people to relax for a meal or grab a drink beforehand, then gather by the stage when the show kicks in. Between sets there’s often trivia or background tunes, making it a true social hub rather than a silent concert hall.
Nearby Amenities
The Butter Factory sits in Whangārei’s compact city centre, so everything you need is close. You’ll find numerous cafés and restaurants within easy walking distance – ideal if you want to, say, grab a pre-show dinner elsewhere. The waterfront Town Basin area is full of options: for example, Sabatini’s Italian or local fish-and-chip shops are a couple of blocks away. Within a block’s walk there’s also sushi bars, a brewpub, and even a dessert cart. Many visitors love dining at Kaimoana (seafood) or The Coffee Bar on Bank Street. If you’re staying overnight, several hotels are nearby. The Quest Hotel is literally next door, and the Distinction Hotel on Riverside Drive is about a 5-minute walk. Travelocity and Airbnb’s picks around here tend to highlight these along with The Ibis Budget on Bank Street. After a show, late-night coffee or snacks can be found around the Town Basin (several convenience stores and a 24-hr dairy are a few minutes’ walk). Taxis line up on Bank Street (ask the venue to call one), and rideshare zones are commonly on the north side of the Town Basin (Hatea Drive area). If you plan on drinking late, note that the last CityLink buses usually run around midnight on weekends, but taxis and app-rides are plentiful any night. Locals suggest arriving at least 30–45 minutes before a top-billed show – this gives time to find parking, settle at a table or stake out a spot, and avoid last-minute queues.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Butter Factory stands out for its blend of history, community and entertainment. It’s literally built into Whangārei’s heritage – an old dairy factory reborn as a live music bar . This means the Victorian stone walls and vintage machinery are as much part of the ambiance as the band on stage . That industrial history gives it character; it’s often described as the only place around with real “rustic charm” . Culturally, it’s a cornerstone of the Northland scene. Many Kiwi musicians and artists consider it a cherished spot because it supports local talent (it proudly sources produce from Northland farms and showcases Whangārei’s creative community). As such, it often feels like a community hub – weekly poetry slams, Te Reo Māori café nights and fundraisers happen here that you won’t see at a generic bar. Patrons also say the staff treat everyone like family, which is frequently mentioned in reviews .
For concert-goers, The Butter Factory offers an intimate setting that bigger venues can’t match. (One promoter even calls it “Whangarei’s premier live music venue” .) Bands love playing the Butter Temple because the crowd is close and the sound system is professional, and audiences love the atmosphere. Its sunny courtyard and year-round operation give it a unique flexibility – you can have a lively dance party under the stars or a snug jazz evening by the fireplace. On the drinks side, there’s nothing like its craft-beer selection in town . In summary, this pub-venue is special because it’s more than a bar or a gig hall – it’s a historic meeting place where great food, beer and live art come together, making it both an economic draw and a cultural landmark for Whangārei.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The Butter Factory’s entrance is at ground level, and it connects via the basement lobby of the adjacent Quest Hotel (the hotel elevator drops you to a back door) . Inside, the floors are on one level (aside from a small step or two in corners), and staff can usually accommodate wheelchairs through the service door if needed. There should be an accessible restroom. If you have any accessibility concerns, ring ahead – the team is used to helping patrons get in smoothly.
What to Bring: ID is a must for anyone looking older than 18 – even if you’re past 25, bring a driver’s licence or passport, as the venue uses ID scanning for age checks . Cash is handy (for tips, though cards are accepted almost everywhere). It’s wise to bring a jacket or sweater if you plan to use the courtyard – it can be chilly at night despite heaters. Ear plugs are a good idea if you’re sensitive to loud music. If you’re coming for dinner, note it’s a casual place – come as you are (jeans or a nice shirt, for example).
Avoid These Mistakes: Don’t assume a late show means walk-in entry. Big gigs often sell tickets in advance, so check beforehand. Street parking is limited – don’t waste time circling blocks. And don’t forget: no outside food or drinks are allowed (stick to buying inside). The doors usually open an hour before a concert, so if you want a good spot, arrive early.
Bag Policy: This is a casual bar, so small bags and purses are fine. Large backpacks may attract a quick pat-down, but generally there’s no strict coat-check room. Valuables can be synchronized by the bar staff.
Dress Code: None. You’ll see everything from t-shirts and jeans to more fashionable night-out attire. It’s definitely more pub-casual than nightclub-formal, so comfort is key.
Age Restrictions: Most evening events are 18+. Children are only allowed during certain daytime or family-friendly events (usually advertised as such). Under-18s won’t be admitted to big night shows even with parents.
Photography: Smartphone snapshots are fine, but professional cameras typically need permission (and flash photography is a no-go). Ask the staff if you plan to film or use expensive equipment. Jerky moves (like climbing on stage or seats) can get you kicked out, so be respectful.
Wi-Fi and Phones: Yes, the venue offers free Wi-Fi for customers . Mobile coverage is usually good, so you can text or book a ride home if needed. Charging ports are limited, so plan accordingly.
Smoking: The interior is non-smoking (Kiwi law). There are ashtrays outside in the courtyard and at the entrance.
Coat Check: There’s no valet service, but staff will usually hang coats behind the bar if you ask. It’s a relaxed place – just don’t block walkways with bags.
Food/Drink Options: Besides the main menu, Butter Factory offers items like cheese platters or popcorn on movie nights. If you have dietary needs, rest assured: the kitchen has gluten-free and vegan choices .
Watch the Clock: On weekdays and Sunday, closing time is around 10–11 pm, but on Fri/Sat it can run to midnight or later . Last call for drinks is usually 30 minutes before closing. Plan your transportation accordingly.
How do I purchase tickets and what are typical prices?
Tickets are sold through The Butter Factory’s official channels—typically via its website and authorised outlets (and occasionally at the door if not sold out). Prices vary by show. Smaller local gigs often cost from NZ$10–20, while big-name bands or DJs can be NZ$30–50 or more. Keep an eye on announcements or the venue’s notices for exact prices. Buy early on popular shows (they sell out) and note that most concerts are 18+, so prepare ID.
Is there parking available at The Butter Factory?
There is no private lot for the venue itself. Nearby parking options include the Town Basin Car Park (access from Dent Street) , and public lots off Lower Dent or Finlayson Streets. Limited metered street parking can be found on Bank and Dent Streets, but spaces fill up fast. Many visitors park in the public carparks within a 5-minute walk. Rideshare drop-off at Bank Street or Dent Street works well on busy nights.
Can I take public transportation to The Butter Factory?
Yes. Whangārei’s CityLink buses stop near the Town Basin (Downtown Whangārei) on Dent or Bank Streets, roughly a 3–5 minute walk from the venue. Check the CityLink route maps for the nearest stop. Taxis and Uber drop-offs are simple: just instruct the driver to stop near 58 Bank St and walk back along Butter Factory Lane. The area is central and well-served, though services slow down after midnight on weekends.
What is the seating arrangement – is it all standing room?
The Butter Factory is mostly general admission. There are no fixed auditorium seats. During shows, most people stand on the floor facing the stage. There are also bar stools, high tables and lounge areas around the edges, plus the outdoor courtyard with patio tables. For the best view, get there early and stand near the front. If you prefer to sit, grab a table or stool in the back room or outside – but note it’s still loud from the stage. Reserved seating is not offered; it’s first-come, first-served on a night’s seating.
www.ticketfairy.com
Are cameras or recording devices permitted?
Phone cameras for personal photos are generally fine. Flash photography or video recording is often discouraged during concerts (ask a staff member if in doubt). Professional cameras may require permission from the venue or artist. Security may check bags at the door; no large tripods or audio recorders are allowed. In short: while you can snap some photos, avoid disruptive recording and be respectful of performers and other guests.
What is the dress code?
The dress code is very casual. Patrons wear anything from jeans and t-shirts to smart-casual outfits. You don’t need to dress up – just comfortable clothes. That said, on fancy theme nights or NYE events people sometimes dress a bit nicer (but still not formal). Generally it’s a relaxed environment, so wear what you’d normally wear to a pub or club.
Are children allowed at The Butter Factory?
During daytime and early-evening events, kids are welcome – the venue even offers options suitable for younger guests . However, most late-night shows are strictly 18+. The Butter Factory advertises itself as family-friendly in the afternoon, but by around 8–9 pm it turns into 18+ only. If bringing underage guests, check the specific event: family-friendly shows and Sunday sessions may be OK for all ages.
Does The Butter Factory have Wi-Fi?
Yes. The Butter Factory offers free Wi-Fi for customers throughout the premises . You can connect easily when you arrive. (Keep in mind, it’s a pub setting – bandwidth is shared with everyone, so it’s not guaranteed fast for heavy use.) Most people use it to check events, call for rideshares, or look up menus. There’s generally good mobile phone coverage too.
What food and drink options are available?
The menu is full-service. You can eat anytime from open to close, including gourmet burgers, steaks, pizza and shared platters . They cater to most diets – vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free dishes are explicitly on the menu . The bar pours about 16 rotating craft beers on tap , local wines, ciders, cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks. Coffee and desserts are available in the afternoon. Show attendees often order dinner here or bring a meal in to enjoy by the stage.
Are there any accessibility features (ramps, etc.)?
Yes, The Butter Factory is wheelchair-accessible. The entry is at street level (via the Quest Hotel basement entrance) and once inside the floors are flat. There are no difficult stairs except for a couple of small steps out back. Staff will gladly show you the most navigable route. An accessible restroom is available. If you have special needs, it’s best to call ahead; the staff are very helpful to guests with mobility requirements.
What are the opening hours?
Hours can vary, but generally The Butter Factory opens around 11 am for lunch and stays open late. According to public listings, typical weekday hours (Mon–Thu) are 11:00–22:00, and Fri–Sat extend to around midnight (23:45) . Sunday hours are usually until about 22:00 . Live shows often begin after 8 pm. Always check the current schedule or call ahead, as specific closing times can change for events.
How big is The Butter Factory – what’s the crowd size?
It’s a cozy medium-sized venue. There’s no official capacity published, but in practice it feels like a hall of a couple hundred people at maximum. It’s significantly smaller than an arena, more akin to a large pub with room for dancing. If you’ve been to a lively pub or cellar concert, you’ll get the idea. Because it’s not huge, popular shows often sell out – plan accordingly.
Why is it called The Butter Factory?
The name comes from the building’s original purpose. It was literally a butter factory in the early 20th century . When the venue opened, the owners kept the industrial name and décor to honor the history. So today it’s a live music venue in an old dairy works – hence “The Butter Factory.” The historic roots are even visible inside: you’ll spot vintage butter churns and machinery as part of the décor .
Is there a coat check or locker service?
There’s no formal coat-check room. Like a neighborhood pub, they’ll usually hang your jacket on a hook or stack it behind the bar if you ask. For larger bags, staff may hold them behind the bar during your visit. It’s informal, but security is friendly. Just be aware that space is limited, so it’s best to travel light or keep belongings on your person when possible.
Do they sell merchandise or goodies to take home?
They do offer some takeaways. In particular, Butter Factory sells cans of its craft beers to go, and even beer tasting flights . On concert nights, visiting bands sometimes sell their own CDs or merch at a makeshift stand. But there isn’t a full-time shop. For memorabilia, your best bets are the locally branded beer cans or asking staff if special event merch is available.
What are the most important things to remember when I visit?
A few quick tips:
ID: Bring valid photo ID for 18+ events . No ID, no entry.Timing: Arrive early for big shows (doors open ~8pm). Late arrival may mean a long queue.Parking: Use the Town Basin carpark (Dent St) late in the day to avoid fines .Cash/Card: Both are accepted, but the bar can get busy. Tipping is not expected.Respect: It’s a friendly local spot. Be courteous to staff and other patrons, keep noise down during sets, and enjoy the historic vibe.
