Wellington, the capital city of New Zealand, is not only known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant arts scene, but also for its thriving live music scene. From intimate venues to larger spaces, there is no shortage of places to catch a live music show in Wellington. In this post, we’ll delve into some of the top live music venues in the city where you can experience the best of local and international music talent.
1. San Fran
Located in the heart of Wellington’s Cuba Street, San Fran is a popular live music venue that hosts a wide range of local and international acts. The venue has a laid-back atmosphere, with a spacious dance floor and balcony area where you can enjoy live music performances up close. From indie rock to electronic music, San Fran offers a diverse lineup of gigs that cater to different musical tastes. The venue also has a well-stocked bar serving a selection of craft beers and cocktails to keep you entertained throughout the night.
2. Meow
Meow is a cozy live music venue and bar located on Edward Street in Wellington. The venue has a retro-chic vibe, with a mix of vintage furniture and eclectic decor that creates a unique ambiance. Meow hosts a mix of live music performances, ranging from jazz and blues to indie rock and electronic music. The venue has a small stage that puts the focus on the artists, creating an intimate and immersive live music experience for the audience. Meow also offers a menu of delicious food and craft beers to enjoy while you listen to some great music.
3. The Hunter Lounge
Situated on the Kelburn campus of Victoria University, The Hunter Lounge is a popular live music venue that attracts a mix of students and music lovers. The venue has a capacity of around 500 people and hosts a variety of gigs, including local bands, DJ sets, and larger touring acts. The Hunter Lounge has a spacious dance floor and bar area, making it the perfect place to dance the night away to some great live music. The venue also has a balcony where you can take a break from the dance floor and enjoy stunning views of the city.
4. Caroline
Caroline is a well-known live music venue located on Manners Street in Wellington. The venue has a long history of hosting live music performances and has established itself as a must-visit destination for music enthusiasts. Caroline has a small stage setup that puts the focus on the artists, creating an intimate and immersive live music experience for the audience. The venue also has a cozy bar area serving a selection of drinks and snacks to keep you energized throughout the night. Whether you’re into rock, jazz, or electronic music, Caroline has something for every music lover.
5. The Rogue & Vagabond
The Rogue & Vagabond is a popular live music venue and craft beer bar located on Cuba Street in Wellington. The venue has a cozy and eclectic atmosphere, with a mix of retro furniture and colorful decor that sets the stage for some great live music performances. The Rogue & Vagabond hosts a mix of local and international acts, ranging from indie rock and blues to funk and soul. The venue has a small stage that puts the focus on the artists, creating an intimate and immersive live music experience for the audience. The venue also has a rotating selection of craft beers on tap, making it the perfect place to enjoy some great music and drinks with friends.
6. The Fringe Bar
The Fringe Bar is a vibrant live music venue and bar located on Allen Street in Wellington. The venue has a cozy and intimate vibe, with a mix of retro furniture and colorful decor that creates a unique atmosphere. The Fringe Bar hosts a variety of live music performances, ranging from acoustic sets and DJ nights to comedy shows and cabaret performances. The venue has a small stage that puts the focus on the artists, creating a memorable and engaging live music experience for the audience. The Fringe Bar also has a well-stocked bar serving a selection of drinks and snacks to keep you entertained throughout the night.
7. Moon
Moon is a unique live music venue located on Victoria Street in Wellington. The venue has a rustic and industrial vibe, with a mix of exposed brick walls and wooden beams that creates a cozy and immersive atmosphere. Moon hosts a mix of live music performances, ranging from indie rock and folk to electronic music and hip-hop. The venue has a small stage setup that puts the focus on the artists, creating an intimate and engaging live music experience for the audience. Moon also has a well-stocked bar serving a selection of craft beers and cocktails to enjoy while you listen to some great music.
8. Valhalla
Valhalla is a popular live music venue located on Vivian Street in Wellington. The venue has a gritty and underground vibe, with a mix of dark lighting and edgy decor that sets the stage for some great live music performances. Valhalla hosts a mix of local and international acts, ranging from punk and metal to experimental and noise music. The venue has a small stage setup that puts the focus on the artists, creating an intense and immersive live music experience for the audience. Valhalla also has a well-stocked bar serving a selection of craft beers and spirits to keep you energized throughout the night.
In conclusion, Wellington is home to a diverse and vibrant live music scene, with a variety of venues that cater to different musical tastes. Whether you’re into indie rock, jazz, or electronic music, there is a live music venue in Wellington that has something for everyone. So next time you’re in the city, be sure to check out one of these top live music venues and experience the best of local and international music talent.
