The Wine Cellar Karangahape Road Auckland
A legendary Auckland basement venue known for its raw, alternative vibe and diverse, high-quality live music performances.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the full live music energy
The Wine Cellar Karangahape Road Auckland
Best Time
Experience the full live music energy
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary Auckland basement venue known for its raw, alternative vibe and diverse, high-quality live music performances.
"Iconic venue you will love if you’re a true lover of bands."
🎯 Get Ready to Queue
The entrance is small, so expect a wait to get in, especially on popular gig nights. :ticket:
💧 Embrace the Steam
The venue can get steamy, especially during energetic performances. Dress accordingly! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Live Music Performances
Experience a diverse range of musical styles from soulful to punk. The sound quality is consistently praised.
Alternative Atmosphere
Immerse yourself in a unique, alternative, and punk-inspired aesthetic that feels authentically underground.
Intimate Basement Venue
This legendary dive bar offers a raw and intimate setting for unforgettable live music nights.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Dive Bar Vibe
Plan for the Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Legendary Auckland Venues WHAMMY!, Backroom, WINE CELLAR Set to Transform into WHAMMY, Double Whammy! and WHAMMY Public Bar
🎯 Get Ready to Queue
The entrance is small, so expect a wait to get in, especially on popular gig nights. :ticket:
💧 Embrace the Steam
The venue can get steamy, especially during energetic performances. Dress accordingly! :athletic_shoe:
🚽 Toilet Wait Times
There are limited toilets, so be prepared for potential queues. :womantoilet: :mantoilet:
🎶 Support Local Music
This is a fantastic spot for lovers of authentic, non-corporatized music. :microphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Get Ready to Queue
The entrance is small, so expect a wait to get in, especially on popular gig nights. :ticket:
💧 Embrace the Steam
The venue can get steamy, especially during energetic performances. Dress accordingly! :athletic_shoe:
🚽 Toilet Wait Times
There are limited toilets, so be prepared for potential queues. :womantoilet: :mantoilet:
🎶 Support Local Music
This is a fantastic spot for lovers of authentic, non-corporatized music. :microphone:
🥤 Plastic Cups Only
Drinks are served in plastic cups, a common practice in this type of venue. :tumbler_glass:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Wine Cellar is a beloved Auckland institution for live music lovers, praised for its authentic dive bar atmosphere, excellent sound quality, and diverse range of bands. While it can get steamy and has basic facilities, its raw energy and commitment to underground music make it an iconic and highly recommended venue for a true gig experience.
"Good place to watch bands. It can get steamy inside the room, good loud sound. There is an open area where the bar is. They only serve drinks in plastic cups. Nice staff and especially the door guy. They have limited toilets one for ladies near bar and another side of stage. Be prepared to wait.
Small entrance be prepared to wait a little to get in. Iconic venue you will love if you’re a true lover of bands."
Brooke Fors
"Was a great venue, loved the atmosphere! Could have a few more rtd options for the bar but overall was a great place for a gig!"
Kayla Fenneman
"Great dive basement bar. Saw Brant Bjork there. Great night. Good sound."
Simon Davies
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Wine Cellar is located on Karangahape Road in Auckland. It's easily accessible by public transport, with numerous bus routes stopping nearby. If driving, be aware that parking in the area can be challenging and often paid.
It's a basement venue with a small entrance, so keep an eye out for signage on Karangahape Road. It's part of the iconic Auckland live music scene.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the band playing, but they are generally considered reasonably priced. It's best to check the specific event details for exact pricing.
For popular gigs, it's advisable to buy tickets in advance to guarantee entry, as the venue can get busy. Some events might offer tickets on the door.
The Wine Cellar's hours are typically tied to its live music schedule. It's best to check their social media or event listings for specific opening times on the night you plan to visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The atmosphere is described as alternative, punk, and authentically dive bar. It's known for being intimate, energetic, and sometimes steamy, especially during performances.
A huge range of musical styles are represented, from soulful to punk. It's a venue that champions diverse and authentic live music.
Yes, it can get quite crowded, especially during popular gigs. The small entrance means queues are common.
There are limited toilet facilities, with one near the bar and another on the side of the stage. Be prepared for potential waits.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Wine Cellar primarily focuses on drinks and live music. Food options are generally not available; it's more of a drinks and gig venue.
They serve a range of drinks, though reviews mention they are served in plastic cups. Some patrons have noted a desire for more RTD (Ready to Drink) options.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, personal photography is allowed, but it's always a good idea to be respectful of performers and other patrons. Professional photography or videography might require permission.
The intimate, alternative aesthetic of the venue itself makes for great photos. Capturing the energy of a live performance is also a popular choice.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
🎶 Music Aficionados
Expect a no-frills environment where the sound quality is a priority. It's the perfect place to discover new bands or catch established underground acts. Don't miss out on the chance to support Auckland's vibrant local music scene here.
✈️ International Tourists
Be prepared for a genuine dive bar experience: it's intimate, can get steamy, and the facilities are basic. This is part of its charm and what makes it a memorable stop. It's a great place to mingle with locals and experience music that comes 'from the soul.'
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Auckland's Live Music Scene
This basement bar has cultivated a dedicated following among music enthusiasts who appreciate its alternative and punk-inspired vibe. It's a place where you can discover soul-stirring music that isn't driven by mainstream commercialism. The intimate setting, combined with consistently good sound quality, makes for memorable nights out.
Visitors often highlight the unique atmosphere as a major draw. It's a space that feels distinctly underground and alternative, offering a refreshing contrast to more polished venues. Whether you're a seasoned gig-goer or a tourist looking for an authentic Auckland experience, The Wine Cellar promises a genuine taste of the city's vibrant music culture.
Navigating the Venue Experience
Inside, the venue is known to get quite steamy, a testament to the energetic performances and the close-knit atmosphere. Dressing in layers or choosing breathable clothing is a practical tip for ensuring comfort throughout the night.
Facilities are basic but functional. There are limited toilet options, with one typically located near the bar and another accessible from the side of the stage. Patrons should be prepared for potential waits for these facilities. Drinks are served in plastic cups, a common practice in such venues, and while the selection is decent, some have expressed a wish for more variety in RTD options.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit