Explore Auckland’s music history with an exciting tour!

Historical Music Venues Tours are back after a popular season in 2021! This year, the tours will run from Karangahape Road (K Road) to Aotea Square, taking you on a brand-new journey to explore more of Auckland city's most iconic music venues.

Uncover legendary stories in a one-hour walking tour led by award-winning author and historian, Gareth Shute. This special opportunity is a chance to delve deeper into the history, iconic moments, and lasting legacies of some truly magical music venues, including Mainstreet, Whammy Bar, Masonic Hall, Polynesian Club, Auckland Town Hall, Neck of the Woods and more. 

The history of Auckland’s live music scene is spread throughout the central city, extending back to the variety shows of the early 1900s through to the jazz and rock of the '50s and '60s coffee lounges, and on to the emergence of punk, R&B, and dance music. 

Photo credit: Adam Holt collection via Audioculture 

Additional Information

The tour will begin at our first venue, Galatos - 17 Galatos Street, Auckland CBD.  Please arrive 10 minutes early so the tour can begin on time. The tour will traverse on foot over an hour between Karangahape Road (K Road) and Aotea Square so please wear comfortable footwear you are able to walk in.

In the case of bad weather, the tours will not go ahead. We will contact registered attendees directly, or check back to our webpage for updates.