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Where to Catch Live Music in Queenstown, New Zealand

Guitars and Sound System
Guitars and Sound System | © moronistaffmarie/Pixabay

So you’re pumping to catch some cool tunes while in Queenstown. Well, you’re in luck: New Zealand’s adventure capital has a vibrant bar scene that will definitely hit the right notes. Many venues have a dynamic gig calendar that appeals to all genres and affinities. For a year-round live music experience, here’s where you need to go.

The World Bar

Restaurant, Bar, European, American, Healthy, Gluten-free, Vegetarian

The World Bar has an epic nightly lineup of music events to entertain its patrons. Fridays offer a mix of eclectic cover tunes and DJ mixes, while Sunday nights contrast the mellow sounds of Indie rock with some pumping baseline beats. Every other night of the week, you’ll catch a regular rotation of local DJs – for instance, the UK-native DJ Stubacca spins his tracks every Monday and Saturday.

Loco Cantina

This cool Mexican restaurant and bar knows how to put on a show. Quite a few homegrown and international DJs have stopped by to drop some serious electronica beats. A few names that have set the stage include The Jillionaire (better known as one third of Diplo’s Major Lazer) and New Zealand’s Shapeshifter. Just to mix things up a notch, Devilskin also made an appearance during their 2014 tour.

Bar and Restaurant

Restaurant, Bar, European, Vegetarian, Gluten-free, Beer, Wine

1876 offers chilled vibes, a sophisticated flair and a good selection of live music. The bar and restaurant resides in an old courthouse building, bringing a bit of local history to its hospitable setting. Summertime is the best to catch some live music at this venue – that’s when the outer deck is transformed into a vibrant events area. Seasonal affairs aside, DJs also turn up the volume every Wednesday and Saturday too.

Pog Mahones

Pog Mahones
© Jane Nearing/Flickr
This Irish-Kiwi pub and restaurant has quite a penchant for entertainment. There’s live music playing almost every night of the week – save from those when there’s important sports match on. Given the theme of the house, don’t be surprised to find the a few Celtic songs and Craic sessions thrown into the mix. Regular performers include Queenstown guitarist Charlie Gibston, and Irish cover-man Dan Browne.

The Pig and Whistle Pub

With live music on every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, the English style Pig and Whistle Pub knows how to please the crowds. Reasonably-priced food and drink are part of the deal, and you have the option of settling by the spacious deck or making yourself at home indoors. Gigs are all about the homegrown artists, like the popular performing duo Calico, and local cover band Mutz Nutz.
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