About The Orchard Business and Event Hub
The Orchard is a modern coworking and events centre in central Whangārei, Northland. Opened in 2016 in supported partnership with Northland Inc and local business agencies (nzentrepreneur.co.nz ) (www.neighbourly.co.nz ), it serves as the region’s first dedicated business hub. The building (at the corner of Walton and Cameron Streets) houses five meeting rooms of various sizes, plus shared office space and hot-desks (www.northlandnz.com ). Its design combines urban office amenities with a warm, collaborative vibe – lots of natural light, glass walls, Māori-inspired décor (the meeting rooms have Te Reo Māori names like Mahi Tahi and Puawai), and communal lounge areas for networking. Facilities include ultra-fast Wi-Fi, interactive SmartScreens, whiteboards, printing and video-conferencing tech to support presentations (www.theorchard.co.nz ). Signature features include unlimited free tea and coffee available on-site (www.theorchard.co.nz ), and dedicated reception staff who greet you by name. The Orchard’s mission – encapsulated by its vision “Seed – Nurture – Grow” – is to help local entrepreneurs flourish, so the venue often feels like an innovation orchard for Northland’s business community (www.theorchard.co.nz ) (nzentrepreneur.co.nz ).
Events and Programming
The Orchard hosts a wide range of events tailored mostly to startups, small businesses and the wider professional community. Expect workshops, seminars, networking meetups, community forums and regular themed events. For example, in 2021 it ran a monthly “Feminine Business Connection” evening – a 2.5-hour networking session with guest speakers, group discussions and networking over coffee (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Events are typically led by local experts or champions (e.g. business coaches, creative entrepreneurs or industry speakers) and draw audiences of business owners, students and staff of local organisations. Programming can include pitch nights, mentorship talks, training (for example on marketing, leadership or digital skills) and special regional initiatives (past highlights include Northland Inc’s “The Pick” business ideas competition launch in 2017 (nzentrepreneur.co.nz )). The Orchard’s calendar is lively: some events are weekly or monthly meetups, while others are one-off conferences or workshops. Because it is primarily a professional venue, you won’t find rock concerts or raves here – events tend toward seminars, panel discussions, exhibitor fairs, small product or book launches, and late-afternoon networking. Ticket prices vary by event; community meetups may be free or donation-based, while many workshops charge a modest entry fee. For example, an entrepreneur networking event listed early-bird tickets at NZ$30 and general admission at $40 (www.ticketfairy.com ). In short, The Orchard’s program is designed to educate, connect and inspire Northland’s business community on a regular schedule.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for public events at The Orchard are usually sold online in advance through major ticketing platforms (Eventfinda, Eventbrite, etc.), as well as sometimes “at the door” if seats remain. Organisers will announce dates on social media and The Orchard’s website; popular workshops often have early-bird pricing and sell out fast. For example, one event’s sales period closed a week prior to the date, with door sales as cash entry on event night (www.ticketfairy.com ). Generally, check The Orchard’s site or official channels about 4–6 weeks ahead for new events. There is no walk-in box-office on regular days, so pre-booking is recommended for sold-out shows. Standard tiers (earlybird, general, concession) are offered depending on the event, and some community talks may even have “name-your-price” or free tickets. If you are organizing an event, contact the venue directly – meeting rooms and the large event halls can be reserved through their online booking calendar (www.northlandnz.com ) or via phone/email. The front desk staff can advise on room hire rates and availability. Box office terms: The Orchard itself does not charge extra service fees, but check each event’s fine print. Always arrive a little early for check-in, as events start promptly and latecomers may miss openings.
Seating and Layout
The Orchard’s layout consists of five bookable rooms plus open workspace. Four smaller meeting rooms (Kakano, Hono, Tupu and Poipoi) are ideal for team meetings or workshops: Kakano seats up to 4, Hono up to 5, Tupu about 8–10, and the boardroom-style Poipoi about 12 (www.sharedspace.co.nz ) (www.sharedspace.co.nz ). These rooms have flat floors, modular tables and rolling chairs, so they can be arranged “classroom” or “boardroom” style. Sliding partitions allow Tupu and Poipoi to combine into one space for mid-sized groups. The two main event halls – Puawai and Mahi Tahi – are larger. Puawai (7m × 9m, with high ceiling) can accommodate roughly 40 people theatre-style, 30 in classroom style, or 25 boardroom style (www.sharedspace.co.nz ). Mahi Tahi is the largest (7.8m × 11m) and is equipped with ceiling projectors and a SmartScreen; it comes with about 80 chairs (with extra chairs available upon request) (www.sharedspace.co.nz ) (www.sharedspace.co.nz ). For a concert or keynote setting in Mahi Tahi, you could fit up to ~80 people in rows, or a small trade-show layout. Because there is no fixed stage or bleachers, sightlines depend on how you arrange the room; generally, rows facing the smart screens or speaker podium work best. In any setup, front and centre seats (near the screen or speaker area) have the clearest view and sound, whereas seats at the very back may feel distant. Acoustics are designed for speech and business audio: sound is quite clear in the halls, but if you’re deep in the back rows of a crowded Mahi Tahi, you might prefer to bring a close friend up front. If you want the best experience, aim to sit near the middle of the audience, and avoid corners behind columns or partitions. VIP sections per se are generally not used, though an event host might block some front row seats. For informal meetups, “breakout” zones in the lobby or kitchen areas can be used for small group chats. In summary, choose seats facing the presenter, and if in doubt arrive early to secure a good spot.
Getting There and Parking
The Orchard is at Level 1, on the corner of Walton and Cameron Streets (85 Cameron / 35 Walton, Whangārei 0110). Its main entrance is off the Walton Street car park opposite Whangārei Drycleaning (www.northlandnz.com ). If driving, note that no on-site parking is available. The closest parking lot is the Vine Street public carpark (around 300m away), or street parking on nearby Clyde and Bank Streets (www.northlandnz.com ). The Vine St lot has ~96 spaces and is pay-and-display: it costs about NZ$2 per hour (Mon–Fri 8am–6pm, 3h max; Sat 8am–2pm, 3h max) (www.parkme.com ) (www.parkme.com ). After 6pm (and all day Sunday) the Vine lot is free, as is on-street parking after hours (check meters). A parking tip: there are designated accessible spots at the Vine St lot, and the area is well-lit (www.parkme.com ). If you are being dropped off, a convenient spot is on Walton St just outside the entrance or on Cameron St; both streets allow short stopping for drop-off.
By Bus or Taxi: CityLink Whangārei buses run frequent routes through the city centre. The nearest bus stops are on Bank Street and Rust Avenue (5–10 minutes’ walk north), and on Kamo Road (5 min walk south) – all within a few blocks. There is no private bus or train directly to Walton St. Taxis and ride-shares (Uber/Hauraki) operate citywide; the main drop-off is Walton/Cameron corner, just outside the front door. Two local taxi companies (Kiwi Cabs and A1/BlueBubble) even have wheelchair-accessible vans, which can be requested for transport (www.whangareinz.com ).Walking & Cycling: The Orchard is in Whangārei’s downtown core, easily reached on foot from the Town Basin or shops. Cycle racks and a handful of bike hoops are on the street outside the building. (Note that heavy cycling traffic by the harbour has its own loop, but the CBD is generally flat.)
Inside the Venue
Step inside a bright, modern interior. You’ll be greeted by the reception desk and friendly staff. Check-in is generally relaxed – most people simply tell the host their name and the event name, or show their e-ticket on a phone. Visitors often receive a brief orientation or a name badge if it’s a larger event. Security is minimal but efficient; expect staff to monitor who comes in (for example, verifying that late arrivals have tickets or invites). No bags are routinely searched, but for any large conferences they may have a brief bag-check policy for safety (just like at a corporate office). There’s no strict dress code; business casual is the norm. A good tip is to dress comfortably but neatly (jeans, smart shirt, etc.), since many attendees will be entrepreneurs or professionals.
The atmosphere is open and purposeful. Between rooms you’ll see co-working pods, long communal tables and lounge seating where people chat and work. Walls are often decorated with startup slogans, company logos of local sponsors, or Māori artwork symbolising growth and collaboration. Large windows provide city views and ample daylight. Climate control (air-conditioning/heating) is good, so rooms stay comfortable year-round. Noise is generally low outside event times; while an active meeting or workshop is in progress, other parts of the coworking space might still be buzzing quietly with people typing or conversing softly. If you need silence, the smaller meeting rooms (away from the break area) are the quietest.
Food & Drink: There is no full-service cafe inside, but free tea, coffee and filtered water are available in the kitchen area all day (www.theorchard.co.nz ) (www.coworker.com ). For special workshops, local caterers can be hired to provide snacks, lunch platters or coffee breaks (the venue often posts a list of recommended caterers). If an event includes refreshments, it’s usually light buffet items or finger food set up in the kitchen zone. You are welcome to bring your own water bottle or snacks, but alcohol is not normally served at business events (unless a bar license is obtained for a sponsored evening gathering).
Other Services: There are men’s and women’s restrooms on each usable floor; at least one is wheelchair-accessible. All rooms have multiple power outlets and strong Wi-Fi, so you can keep phones and laptops charged. (The Wi-Fi login is typically displayed on room screens and in emails.) A printer/copier is located in the main workspace for members—event organizers can arrange on-site printing or ask staff to assist. There is no formal coat-check, but attendees often drape jackets on empty chairs or hand them to a nearby usher for the duration of an event. A high chair or booster for a baby might be available on request, but check in advance. Large or fragile equipment (e.g. a flip-chart or whiteboard trolley) is provided; staff or technicians will help move and set up gear as needed.
Nearby Amenities
The Orchard sits in Whangārei’s downtown hub, so almost any amenity is a short walk away. Just around the corner is The Walton Street Cafe (67 Walton St) (chrisjack3300.wixsite.com ), a popular breakfast spot famous for coffee, bagels and healthy morning fare. If you arrive early for an event, grabbing a mocha or breakfast there is easy. Along Walton and Vine Street (one block east) you’ll find pharmacies, convenience shops, and casual eateries (think salad bars, bakery cafes, sushi takeaways, etc.).
For lunch or dinner, the vibrant Town Basin area is about a 5–10 minute walk. This waterfront precinct has licensed eateries and bars like Riverside Café on the marina, Mokaba (a trendy all-day cafe with a bar), and various restaurants serving international cuisine. Right by the river are craft breweries and pubs (e.g. Vine Hotel, Tuatara Brewing taproom) for a relaxed drink after an evening event. When the Hundertwasser Arts Centre is open, its ground floor also offers coffee and gallery space within sight of the Basin.
If you need to stay overnight, several hotels and motels are nearby. Distinction Hotel Whangārei (4-star) and Quality Inn & Suites are about 3 blocks away near Rust Avenue/Bank Street. Discovery Settlers Hotel is a little beyond Town Basin and has waterfront rooms. Closer to Walton St there are smaller motels and backpackers too.
For other needs: there’s an ATM outside a branch bank on Vine Street, a petrol station on Bank Street (3 min drive), and a supermarket a few blocks south on Cameron Road (Valley Mega Centre). Taxi stands and rideshare pickup zones are scattered around here, but taxi drivers usually roam the CBD looking for fares. After an event, CityLink buses run until around 6:30pm (last buses depart Whangārei bus hub by 7pm); beyond that or on Sundays you’ll rely on taxis/Uber.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Orchard is special for being a homegrown hub of Kiwi entrepreneurship. It is Whangārei’s only fully dedicated coworking-and-event space of this scale (nzentrepreneur.co.nz ). There is real “spark” in the air: many local business networks and government agencies work under one roof, so attendees often bump into Northland Inc or Chamber of Commerce staff at events. The strong Māori influence (e.g. Te Reo names like Mahi Tahi meaning “work together,” the whakatauki on walls) gives it a unique cultural vibe. It’s often described by members as a place of energy and serendipity – you might find yourself chatting with a potential mentor or investor right outside a workshop.
The design itself reflects creativity: consider how the sliding partitions allow two rooms to merge into a larger space where once only small breakout rooms stood. Walls are decorated with murals and graffiti art (reflecting Northland’s artistic community) and the space feels more “creative loft” than traditional business centre. Legendary moments include hosting regional innovation events – for instance, The Pick competition champions came here, and local startup demo days have taken place in Mahi Tahi. One regular story: everyday people set up laptops at long tables over coffee, while down the hallway a seminar is in full swing. This blend of casual work environment with formal presentation spaces is rare in Northland. Many entrepreneurs say they love The Orchard because unlike a hotel conference room, it feels informal, and unlike a coffee shop, it’s purpose-built for business.
Moreover, The Orchard plays a key cultural role. It’s where hopeful young Northlanders can nurture business ideas with direct support (sometimes the local council or government reps even sponsor events here). On any given day you might hear a startup pitch in progress, catch a casual mentor session, or witness a networking evening where everyone genuinely wants to help each other. Visitors often remark that the motto “Let’s get shit done” (embraced by members) truly fits the atmosphere. In short, The Orchard is not just a building – it’s become a favourite meeting ground and social hub for the city’s innovators and small businesses.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The building is modern and handicap-accessible. There is elevator access to Level 1, and at least one staff-accessible restroom per floor. The venue follows NZ accessibility standards, so wheelchair users can navigate the halls and meeting rooms comfortably. If you require any special assistance (ramps, large print materials, hearing loop, etc.), it’s best to mention this in advance to the organizers. Wheelchair-toilet stalls have clear signage (look for the blue symbol) and a 90-degree turn-in space.
What to Bring: Most visitors just bring a notebook or laptop. For networking events, bring plenty of business cards or have your digital contact info ready – attendees often exchange info informally (one event notice even said “Bring Biz Cards!” (www.ticketfairy.com )). If it’s a long workshop, pack a pen and light snack or water bottle (though tea/coffee is provided). Dress in layers – the a/c can be cool, while the kitchen area might be warmer. Don’t forget an umbrella or jacket if rain is forecast (you’ll have a short walk to the bus stop or car after).
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Arriving late is discouraged because sessions usually start on time. If you miss registration, you might have trouble getting in. Likewise, avoid booking parking exactly next to the building – as noted, there is none – or stall in the staff driveway. Another tip: silence your phone upon entry, as workshops need quiet focus. Finally, make sure you actually signed up (some say “I’m attending, but forgot to RSVP” – always RSVP or book ahead if required, since many events cap attendance).
Age Restrictions and Policies: The Orchard does not impose a strict age limit, but events vary. Many business meetups are advertised as “All Ages” or 18+ (www.ticketfairy.com ), meaning anyone can attend with interest. However, for certain workshops (e.g. tech or trade training) a high school diploma or age 16+ might be suggested. There is no drinking or smoking allowed anywhere inside the space. Do not bring pets unless a registered emotional support animal (and double-check with staff). Outside food is fine (vegetarians, food allergies, etc.), but please keep the kitchen clean. If you’re ever unsure, ask the front-of-house team – they’re used to assisting visitors.
Insider Tips: If you’re going for free Wi-Fi, signs are up in meeting rooms and the lobby. Heads-up: restroom doors have baby-change benches if needed. Coat parking: you can hang garments on available pegs in meeting rooms, or drape them on chairs at larger events. For photography rules: casual pictures are usually fine at public events, but flash photography during presentations may be discouraged. If you want stage lighting or sound for a performance (rare, but some small gigs happen), contact an AV supplier in advance – The Orchard can recommend local sound/lighting technicians. Lastly, plan to stay after events for networking; the Orchard’s lounge areas make it easy to chat with speakers or new contacts over a cuppa.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of The Orchard’s event spaces?
The Orchard has five bookable rooms. Two larger halls seat many attendees: Puawai fits around 40 theatre-style (30 classroom), and Mahi Tahi seats about 80 with telescopic chairs (www.sharedspace.co.nz ) (www.sharedspace.co.nz ). Smaller rooms range from 4 to 12 seats. If you combine Tupu and Poipoi (via movable walls), that adjoining suite can handle roughly 20. Overall, the total venue capacity is advertised up to roughly 100 people, but most single events stay below 80 for comfort. (www.sharedspace.co.nz ) (www.sharedspace.co.nz )
What kinds of events are held at The Orchard?
Expect business-focused gatherings: workshops, seminars, networking meetups, training courses, and small conferences. Example: there have been monthly entrepreneur mixers (like the “Feminine Business Connection” meet-ups) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Most events attract local entrepreneurs, students, and professionals. There are virtually no nightclub or live music concerts (it’s primarily a corporate/events venue). Check The Orchard’s events page for upcoming programs. Many are recurring (weekly/monthly) community events and ticketed workshops, with speakers and interactive segments (www.ticketfairy.com ) (www.ticketfairy.com ).
How do I buy tickets or book for a popular event?
Booking is usually online via the event organizer or a ticketing platform (theore site has links in event listings). Ticket releases typically happen 1–2 months prior. For sought-after events, purchase early – organizers sometimes offer earlybird pricing (as low as ~$30 NZD in example events (www.ticketfairy.com )) and sell out quickly. Check social media or The Orchard’s official site for announcements. Some events also allow on-site ticket purchase if availability remains (often cash payment). For booking the venue itself, contact The Orchard directly or use their online calendar to reserve rooms (www.northlandnz.com ).
Is The Orchard wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The building is modern and has ramp/lift access to the main floor. Entrances are level and doorways wide. Accessible parking is available nearby (see Vine St carpark information with designated handicap spaces (www.parkme.com )). All public restrooms in the venue follow accessibility standards (with sufficient clearance and grab rails). If specific accessibility needs exist (e.g. hearing loop, large-print handouts), it’s best to notify the organizer beforehand, but basic wheelchair access is built in.
Are there food and drink options inside the venue?
There’s no cafeteria, but the away-room kitchen has free tea, coffee and water for attendees (www.theorchard.co.nz ) (www.coworker.com ). Session breaks often feature light refreshments brought in by caterers (like pastries or sandwiches). If you prefer a meal, nearby eateries include Walton Street Cafe (for breakfast/lunch) and a variety of Town Basin restaurants (a short walk away) for full meals and licensed bars. You’re allowed to bring personal snacks or bottled water, but alcoholic drinks must comply with event rules (generally it’s non-alcoholic except at special cocktail events with a license).
What are the parking options and costs?
There is no on-site parking at The Orchard (www.northlandnz.com ). The closest is the Vine Street public car park (about 300m away), which has ~96 spots. It’s pay-and-display: $2/hour (Mon–Fri 8am–6pm, 3h max; Sat 8am–2pm, 3h max) (www.parkme.com ) (www.parkme.com ). (Parking is free in the evenings after 6pm, all day Sunday, and outside those hours.) Alternatively, on-street parking on nearby Clyde or Bank Streets is metered (similar rates, usually a 3h limit). If you need accessible parking, the Vine St lot has designated disabled spaces (www.parkme.com ). Taxis/Uber can drop off at the entrance (Cameron/Walton corner).
What time should I arrive for an event?
Plan to arrive 10–15 minutes early, especially for ticketed events. Doors often open slightly before the advertised start time (e.g. 15 minutes). Early arrival ensures you find good seating and get checked in without rushing. Latecomers sometimes have to allow others to leave the room briefly for entry, which can disrupt the session. If you have pre-paid tickets, just show them on your phone and you’ll be guided to your seat.
Are there age restrictions or dress codes?
No strict dress code is enforced. Business casual is most common (jeans and a shirt or casual work attire). Feel free to be comfortable but neat. Events have varied audiences: most are open to adults (some advertise “all ages” (www.ticketfairy.com )), while a few professional workshops might target 16+. Generally, kids must be supervised and not disrupt proceedings. Smoking is only allowed outside, and you may be asked to turn off or silence electronic devices during presentations.
Is there free Wi-Fi at The Orchard?
Yes – The Orchard provides complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the venue (www.theorchard.co.nz ). In meeting rooms and common areas the network name and password are usually shown on-screen or on a welcome sign. This is very useful for live demos or if you need online access during a workshop. Many co-workers stream virtual meetings or watch presentations via laptop here, so the connection is robust.
Can I book The Orchard for private events or after-hours functions?
Yes, private bookings are welcome, but there are some limitations. The Orchard is primarily open to events during weekdays (Mon–Thu 8am–5pm, Fri 8am–4:30pm) (www.northlandnz.com ) (www.northlandnz.com ). Night or weekend hires may be possible but are by special arrangement (the official listing notes it’s not typically used for “after hours functions” (www.northlandnz.com )). Contact their bookings team to discuss your schedule. Note: any event serving alcohol would need a license. The venue does offer 24/7 access for members (desk renters) and some corporate events (www.neighbourly.co.nz ), but check in advance for availability and extra staffing fees if you want late hours.
Does The Orchard offer catering and equipment hire?
There is no in-house catering service, but The Orchard will recommend local caterers for coffee breaks or meals. For example, a refreshment trolley (with tea/coffee setup) can be added for a small fee, and off-site cafes/restaurants can deliver boxed lunches. Audio-visual equipment (projectors, microphones) is built-in to most rooms. If you need podium mics, wireless speakers or special lighting, event organizers typically hire these from local AV companies. The Orchard staff can direct you to trusted sound/lighting providers if needed.
