About Opononi Hotel Limited
The Opononi Hotel Limited is a historic pub and resort-style hotel located at 19 State Highway 12 (RD3), Opononi, Northland. Perched on the edge of Hokianga Harbour, it overlooks the scenic mouth of the harbour and native bush. The venue is best known as “Opononi Resort Hotel” on local maps, featuring a waterfront restaurant (the Boar & Marlin) and a lounge/bar with panoramic harbour views (www.cvent.com ) (www.opononihotel.com ). In total it offers ten harbourside rooms – modernly decorated, each with a private balcony and sweeping sea vistas (www.cvent.com ). As the main social hub of rural Opononi, the hotel blends classic Kiwi pub atmosphere with tourist-friendly resort comforts. It has a long-standing presence in the community: generations of locals and travelers have gathered here for decades to eat, drink and celebrate life on the water’s edge.
Opononi Hotel’s unique character draws on both local heritage and its striking setting. The Hokianga harbour region is steeped in Māori tradition (folklore says the legendary navigator Kupe journeyed to and from these shores (teara.govt.nz )). In modern history, Opononi’s beachfront was famous in 1955–56 for “Opo” the friendly bottlenose dolphin, which played for fishermen and captivated visitors here before tragically perishing (nzhistory.govt.nz ). The hotel lies just up the road from the Opo the Dolphin Memorial Statue (only about 0.2 miles away (www.tripadvisor.com )) – a reminder of this peculiar chapter. This blend of natural beauty and local lore – ocean views, coastal sunsets, kiwi hospitality, and dolphins in the surf – gives the Opononi Hotel its signature flair. It is not just an overnight stay but a community icon where Hokianga’s culture and history come alive in a friendly, relaxed venue.
Events and Programming
Music and events are at the core of the Opononi Hotel experience. The pub regularly hosts live concerts and themed nights in its main bar and function spaces (www.opononihotel.com ). Programming spans genres popular in New Zealand: you’ll find everything from rural country evenings and Māori music sessions to reggae, roots and pop/rock gigs. Local and touring acts play here almost every month – for example, in recent years Kiwi reggae and rock bands such as Six60, Coterie, Sons of Zion, Tomorrow People and Conkarah have played at Opononi (www.opononihotel.com ). The hotel has even hosted one-night festivals like “Kiwi Grooves” (a reggae/dance night) and seasonal beach parties (e.g. “Opononi SummerDaze” on New Year’s Eve), often featuring multiple artists and DJs. A structured Hokianga Country Music Club meets at the venue on the second Sunday of each month (from 1pm), with local bands and line-dancers gathering for open-country jam sessions (www.hokiangacountrymusic.com ). Other community events are common too: fishing competitions, pig-hunting contests and vintage shows have been organized in the combined indoor/outdoor spaces. In short, the Opononi Hotel’s calendar is packed – guests can expect something to attend most weekends, from intimate singer-songwriter nights and karaoke to clash-of-the-bands competitions under the open sky.
Past highlights include many noted Kiwi artists: in January 2024 the chart-topping band Six60 played a sold-out show here, and popular reggae bands like Sons of Zion and Tomorrow People have headlined. Country music celebrations and cultural gatherings are equally famed. Typically events cater to adults (over-18 or 20+) due to the on-site liquor licensing, though special family-oriented shows or daytime concerts can be all-ages. Ticket prices are usually very affordable by NZ standards – modest gigs might charge around NZ$20–25, while larger concerts or festival nights may go for NZ$30–50. Occasionally special services (like table service or group bookings for VIP sections) have higher tiers. Because of the hotel’s limited capacity, popular shows often sell out in advance. The venue promotes upcoming acts via local radio and posters, and encourages early booking. In general, if you love live Kiwi music or community celebrations, the Opononi Hotel has something lively and local to offer on almost any weekend.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for events at the Opononi Hotel are typically sold through advance booking services or directly through the hotel. For large shows, tickets may go on sale several weeks before the event’s date; smaller nights might sell admission at the door. There is no third-party box office on site, so the usual method is to purchase tickets online (via local ticket outlets or the event promoters) or to reserve them by phone/email with the hotel’s reservations staff. In-person purchases are often possible at the bar prior to the night of the show. For very popular acts, tickets are known to sell out quickly, so it pays to plan ahead – many regulars monitor announcements through the hotel’s website or community bulletin. On the day of the event, the hotel’s entrance opens around one hour before showtime (often 7–8pm for evening gigs), and any unsold tickets may then be available at the door on a first-come basis. Prices are usually set at a single tier (general admission), with the occasional special pricing (e.g. concession or group rates). For seating matters (if the event has reserved tables or dining tickets), one can request specific plans when booking. Overall, buying tickets early and arriving early for entry are the best strategies for smooth planning.
Seating and Layout
The Opononi Hotel’s layout is that of a rustic coastal pub with several connected spaces. The main performance area is inside the bar/restaurant section on the ground floor. A small raised stage or rostrum is set up by the back wall of the dining room, with speakers and lights angled towards the audience. In front of the stage is a general-access area that can be seated or standing – for bigger concerts the bar stools and tables are often moved aside to create a dance floor or standing-room space. Otherwise, most events use banquet-style seating or cabaret tables in front of the stage, so you can watch while dining or drinking. The Boar & Marlin Restaurant itself lies adjacent; diners there may watch through the open archway. Additional viewing spots include the side lounge and any balcony that overlooks the main floor. The best seats for full view are usually front-row tables near the stage; if you want a less crowded vantage, choose one of the few booths along the railing or stand towards the back by the bar. Because the venue is intimate, sightlines are generally good from anywhere inside. Outside, a deck and beer garden face the harbour – these have no direct stage view but are nice for an intermission break (though some outdoor areas do have small portable speakers piped out, so you can follow the action while in the fresh air). Beware: the sound can be loud close to the speakers, so sensitive ears may prefer to step a bit back. Acoustic-wise, the rooms are solidly built (wood and glass), so the music sounds bright but can echo; in practice the house sound tech balances the band well. There are no formal VIP boxes, but large groups sometimes run block reservations of tables for a semi-private feel near the performers. In sum, seating is mostly general-admission with a few tables, and the open layout makes for a casual, up-close concert experience.
Getting There and Parking
The Opononi Hotel is easy to find by car. It sits right on State Highway 12, at the main junction in the village of Opononi (parking address: 19 SH12). Driving from the nearest city, it’s about a 1.5–2 hour scenic route north from Whangarei (via SH1 and SH12), or roughly 3–4 hours from Auckland via Whangarei. Free parking is available on site for hotel guests and event patrons (www.tripadvisor.com ). The lot directly behind the hotel can hold dozens of cars and is marked “Opononi Hotel”. Street parking is also permitted on the adjacent state highway shoulder (observing NZ road safety rules), but most visitors use the dedicated car park. For those not driving, public transportation is limited. There is no train service; the closest share-ride or coach connections are buses. Northland’s regional bus lines (Hokianga Link and Mid-North Link) run coaches through Opononi between Kaikohe, Kawakawa, Kaitaia and some other towns (fare schedules are on Buslink Northland’s website). For example, you can often catch an InterCity coach to Kawakawa or Kaikohe and transfer up the Hokianga valley. On a typical bus route, Opononi Hotel is one of the scheduled stops in Opononi village (ask the driver). There is no Uber or Lyft in this rural area; however, local taxi services or shuttle vans can be booked in advance (e.g. Mangonui or Kaikohe based operators). If arriving by long-distance coach into Whangarei or Kaitaia, you would still need a taxi at the end. The hotel staff or local information centers can advise on current schedules, but most visitors find renting a car the simplest way to explore comfortably. Once there, rideshare apps and taxis are essentially nonexistent, so plan to rely on your own transport or pre-arrange a local ride back if leaving late at night.
Inside the Venue
Expect a warm, casual pub atmosphere indoors. Entry is at the front; on event nights there will typically be a ticket check (and occasional security staff) at the door. You may be asked to show ID (or a ticket stub) – for 18+ events, photo ID is required to drink. No outside food or steel-framed chairs are allowed. The interior flooring is wood and carpet, and has dimmable track lighting over the stage. The stage area is modest (perhaps 2 meters high by 4–5 meters wide) with concert lighting rigs – spotlights and colored LEDs – mounted in the ceiling. A professional PA sound system is used for gigs (the hotel keeps it tuned to handle big crowds). The bar counter is L-shaped behind the center of the hall, stocked with local beers on tap, spirits and wine. Bar service is friendly and quick; if busy, be patient. Tables are often cleared away for standing crowds; if you bring small children to an all-ages show, they can sit in the family dining area to the side. Restrooms (toilets and sinks) are located down the hallway to the rear of the building – one set of loos individual for men and women, reasonably clean and kept stocked. There’s no formal cloakroom, but cloak racks are usually put out by the entrance; larger personal items should be kept with you at the table or bar. Baby change facilities are not specifically provided, so parents may need to use an accessible toilet stall. Wi-Fi may be available for guests (as the hotel advertises free internet in rooms), but keep in mind coverage can be spotty in this remote area, so don’t count on fast data. If you need to check schedules or directions, it’s safest to do so prior to arriving (or ask staff at the bar – they’re always happy to help).
Nearby Amenities
The hotel has its own on-site restaurant (Boar & Marlin Restaurant) serving a full Kiwi pub menu – fresh seafood, steaks, burgers, local produce and classic comfort foods – and an attached bar lounge for drinks. If you arrive early, the restaurant is open for lunch and dinner (usually 11am–8pm) and has great harbour views. Outside food trucks are not common, but there is a small cafe and convenience store nearby (the Opononi Four Square, about 100m down the road) where one can grab snacks or supplies. Directly opposite the hotel is the Hokianga Express service station (with takeaway pies, coffee and petrol). No big fast-food chains are in town, so eating options outside the hotel are limited to local spots – however, a short drive (10–15 minutes) south leads to “Kai i te Awa” cafe on the Hokianga river, a well-known waterfront restaurant with artisanal fare. For overnight stays, the Opononi Hotel itself is the main lodging in the village. Other accommodations nearby include the Opononi Beach Holiday Park (camping and cabin rentals, about a 5 minute walk from the hotel, 450m away) and a handful of bed-and-breakfasts on the harbour edge. Travelers often arrive a day ahead to explore iconic sights: the Opononi Beach and seal colony, the Opo Dolphin Statue at the seaside reserve (mere steps from the hotel), and historic Kupe Landing Lookout (a local Maori heritage spot) are all within walking distance. In town you’ll also find a few shops: a waterfront arts/composites gallery (selling Maori crafts and local art) and a real estate office. For some evening plans after a show, note that Opononi is very small – if the hotel or nearby eateries are closed late at night, lodging guests should have their own transport back, or stay in the hotel’s accommodation. The hotel bar usually remains open until late on event nights, and its friendly staff can point you to any remaining open venues or organize a nightcap if available.
What Makes This Venue Special
Opononi Hotel stands out because of its unique seaside charm and community spirit. Architecturally, it combines the feel of a traditional Northland pub with modern resort elements – the multi-level structure has numerous decks and verandas facing the harbour, complete with hanging baskets and palm plantings. Its “Boar & Marlin” patio dining room, for instance, is built over the water providing stunning sunset views of the Hokianga Heads. Culturally, this hotel has hosted countless memorable nights: it claims to have welcomed “some of New Zealand’s biggest acts” over the years, blending big-city concerts with small-town hospitality. It is also unique for being the focal point of arts and history in Opononi; the hotel’s staff often share stories of the area with guests. The legacy of Opo the Dolphin, for example, is woven into the atmosphere – many visitors enjoy seeing the small statue of Opo at the beach with their watch beer, and locals still speak of that golden era with pride. Moreover, it’s a gathering place for local tradition: the Hokianga Country Music Club has practiced there for over two decades, and annual festivals (such as the sailing regatta in late summer) use the hotel as a venue. The combination of warm service, lively events and those legendary harbour vistas makes Opononi Hotel beloved by both audiences and the many performers who return. Tourists often comment that the friendly mix of Māori and Pākehā staff makes them feel welcome like extended family – a hospitality trait that’s distinctly Kiwi. In short, Opononi Hotel is special because it really is a home-away-from-home on the Northland coast: you come for a concert or a meal, but you leave with tales of Opo, a taste of country music, and a sunset memory that lingers long after you’ve gone.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The main pub and performance space are on ground level so they are wheelchair-accessible (ramped entrance and level floors). However, the hotel’s dining deck and some hotel rooms are upstairs – ask staff for help if you need elevators or ground-floor lodging. The venue has at least one unisex disabled toilet. Patron Tips: Bring warm layers even in summer – the harbour breeze can get chilly at night. In sandal season, mosquito repellent can be handy (the building’s lights sometimes attract bugs). Windows inside are mostly sealed, so indoor events rarely suffer from chill or pests, but stepping outside between sets is refreshing. It’s good to arrive about 30–60 minutes before a show starts to find parking, get a table, and buy a drink without missing the opening act. For popular concerts, crowds can form at the bar line, so if you want a drink during the show it’s wise to order early. Phone signal is weak here (few towers in the valley), so download any digital tickets or directions in advance. Dress Code: The vibe is casual – jeans and a jumper or dress is typical – just tidy shirt and comfortable shoes. The hotel enforces standard ID and liquor laws: anyone drinking must be 18+ with ID. Photography: Personal photos at shows are fine, but professional cameras or video recording is frowned upon without permission (photography rules should be confirmed with event staff beforehand). No open flames or sparklers are allowed inside or on the deck. Pets: Only service animals are allowed in the main areas. Food/Dining: The Boar & Marlin menu caters to most diets (vegetarian options are usually available), but last call for food is about 8pm – plan meals accordingly. Weather: Since the hotel is on the waterfront, events are almost always indoors; in very fine weather, bands might also set up just outside on the lawn, so check each event’s notes. Check-In: If staying overnight, check-in is normally until late in the evening. If you arrive after 9pm, just use the door code provided or ring the bell (staff often stay late for late arrivals). Remember to respect the quiet title: by NZ law, if the venue finishes at midnight or 1am, music is cut off promptly. With these tips in mind – ID in pocket, warm jacket on, sense of adventure – you’ll be set to enjoy everything Opononi Hotel has to offer.
How can I purchase tickets for events at Opononi Hotel?
Tickets are sold through the hotel as well as local vendors. For big shows, tickets often go on sale weeks in advance via New Zealand ticket outlets or the band’s distributors. Small gigs sometimes sell at the bar on event nights. It’s best to call the hotel or check its announcements for the specific event; you can usually pay online or in person. Popular concerts may sell out, so book early.
What are the typical ticket prices for concerts here?
Prices vary by event. Modest local shows might charge NZ$20–30 for general admission. Larger acts or festival-style events are usually in the NZ$30–50 range. Country clubs or comedic amps could even be as low as a tenner. Occasionally table service or special packages cost more. In summary, live gigs at Opononi Hotel are generally affordable, often under $40 – though premium headliners may ask around $50.
When do tickets for shows typically go on sale?
The sale date is set by the promoter. Many concerts and big events announce tickets 4–6 weeks before the performance. Country nights or weekly music events may not require advance tickets. The hotel usually advertises the on-sale date by flyers and online posts. If you’re planning a trip for a specific show, watch local media or contact the hotel early – they can tell you exactly when bookings open. In short, popular concerts are best booked well ahead of time.
What is the address of Opononi Hotel?
The Opononi Hotel is located at 19 State Highway 12, Opononi, Northland, New Zealand (Roading District 3). It sits right on the main road by the Hokianga Harbour. The building has a big sign and is easy to spot as you drive into the town. Use that address in GPS for turn-by-turn navigation. It’s also labeled as Opononi Resort Hotel on some maps. (www.cvent.com ) (www.opononihotel.com )
Is parking available at Opononi Hotel and is it free?
Yes – the hotel offers free parking for guests and concertgoers (www.tripadvisor.com ). There’s a sizable lot right behind the building, plus additional parking around the side. You won’t be charged to park. On busy nights it fills quickly, but there is street parking on the nearby State Highway. In short, car park space is convenient and free of charge for visitors.
How can I reach Opononi Hotel by public transportation?
Public transport in this remote area is limited. There is no train; regional buses (InterCity, Hokianga Link) serve the Hokianga district. To use them, travel by bus or coach to Kaikohe or Kawakawa first. From Kaikohe, a connecting bus runs down the SH12 loop through Opononi (check Buslink Northland for schedules). If using a long-distance coach from Auckland or Whangarei, you’ll likely transfer at Whangarei or Kaitaia by smaller local buses or a local hop-in shuttle. Note that service is infrequent (often only a few times per day), so driving is generally much easier.
Are rideshare services (Uber, Lyft) available to get to Opononi Hotel?
No – rideshare apps do not operate in rural Northland. There are no Uber or Lyft drivers in Opononi or the Hokianga. If you need a ride, you must arrange a private taxi or shuttle from nearby towns (e.g. Kaikohe or Kaitaia), or have someone drop you off. For late departures after an event, the best plan is to stay overnight at the hotel or book a local transfer in advance.
What are the seating arrangements within the venue?
The venue is mostly open-plan. For concerts, seating is generally general-admission. Tables and chairs are arranged front-and-center for dining/viewing, but for big shows staff usually clear space into a dance/standing area. There are a few fixed booth seats along the back wall and balconies for quieter viewing. Some events reserve tables (especially if combining dinner with music). There is no formal theatre-style seating or numbered rows – so it really is first-come, first-served. If you want a good view, plan to get in early and grab a front-row or side-table near the stage.
Where is the stage, and what are the best spots to watch a show?
The stage is at the far end of the main bar/dining area. The closest positions (front row) will give you the clearest view of performers. Many concert-goers also like to stand by the railing halfway back for a wider perspective (and easier access to the bar). In quieter sets, some patrons watch from the elevated deck or balcony behind the stage, though sightlines from behind aren’t perfect. For a balance of sound and crowd space, sit or stand in the centre-left or centre-right of the hall. Avoid crowding too close to the side speakers if you’re sound-sensitive; the bar area is a good “shoulder spot” with decent audio but a bit quieter.
Is access to standing areas or a dance floor allowed?
Yes. Menus and tables are moved aside for standing-area gigs. The open floor in front of the stage double as a spontaneous dance floor for lively shows. Watching from behind tables or at a bar stool is also fine – many people do a mix of both. If dancing is expected (reggae and country nights often encourage it), feel free to get up and groove. For more relaxed acts (singer-songwriters, acoustic nights), most guests will stay at their seats. In either case the environment is very casual, and standing near the stage is perfectly normal. There is no extra fee for standing – all seating is included in the ticket unless a special package is sold.
What is the bag and camera policy at the venue?
Opononi Hotel follows standard pub rules: personal bags are generally permitted, but large packs or outside coolers may be subject to search. If you have a bulky camera or recording gear, ask permission – typically personal photography (smartphones, point-and-shoot cameras) is allowed, but professional photo/video require clearance from management. No weapons or glass bottles from outside are allowed; any confiscated items must be returned at the end of the event. If in doubt, secure your belongings with you or leave valuables in your car.»
Can I bring outside food or drinks into an event?
No – outside food and drinks are not permitted. The hotel offers a full restaurant and bar service. Imported food and beverages are considered violation of the liquor licensing rules. Guests are welcome to purchase whatever they need at the on-site bar or order room service if staying overnight. If you have dietary restrictions, the kitchen can often accommodate special requests, but bringing your own snacks is not allowed.
Are there age restrictions for events at Opononi Hotel?
Most evening events at the hotel are for patrons 18 and over (or 20+ after 8pm) because it is a licensed bar. You may need ID to prove age on entry. However, the venue does host some family or all-ages shows (usually matinees or early concerts) during afternoons or special occasions. These will be advertised as “all ages.” If you’re unsure, check the event listing or ask the hotel. In general: adults only in the late evening; children and teens allowed only for designated early events with ticketed entry.
Is there a dress code for events at Opononi Hotel?
The atmosphere is very casual, so there is no formal dress code. Clubbers and concert-goers generally wear clean casual attire – jeans, t-shirts, dresses or smart-casual outfits are all fine. Some country nights see people in hats and cowboy boots, but it’s not required. Since it’s a pub, closed-toe shoes and respectful clothing are expected (tanks and shorts are fine in summer). If the event is a wedding or formal dinner, then attire would be more formal; otherwise, feel free to dress for comfort and weather.
Is smoking allowed inside Opononi Hotel?
No. By New Zealand law, the interior of Opononi Hotel is completely non-smoking (including e-cigarettes). There is usually a designated outdoor smoking sheltered area near one of the entry doors. If you wish to smoke, please step outside. Cigar and pipe smoking (which produce more pollution) are especially restricted to outdoor and often limited to the hotel’s paved smoking patio. Always be mindful that children may be present, so smoke outside only in the marked areas.
What food and beverage options are available at Opononi Hotel?
The hotel has an on-site restaurant and bar. Menus feature classic New Zealand pub fare: fresh fish from the Hokianga, burgers, steaks, vegetarian dishes and local desserts. Meal service is usually from late morning or noon until early evening. The bar offers local beers on tap, wines including Northland vineyards, spirits and non-alcoholic beverages. During shows, the kitchen and bar stay open to offer snacks and drinks – often you can order nachos, fries or a burger right at your table between sets. Outside meals are not permitted, but room service (from the restaurant) is available to overnight guests.
Does Opononi Hotel have wheelchair access and other accessibility features?
The main areas of the venue (bar, dining hall and stage floor) are on the ground level and have ramped entry, so wheelchairs can enter easily. The restaurant has at least one unisex accessible bathroom. That said, some parts of the property (deluxe rooms or meeting space on upper floors) have stairs. If you require special assistance, the staff are very helpful and can escort you. The hotel is reasonably disability-friendly, but we recommend calling ahead to confirm specific needs. Service animals are allowed.
Are restrooms and coat checks available?
Yes. Public restrooms are in the back hallway: separate men's and women's toilets. They are well-maintained during events. There is no formal cloakroom counter, but coat racks are commonly placed near the entrance for guest use. For large coats or bulky items, you can leave them on a designated rack (staff will tell you where). Neither facility currently charges a fee – use is included with your event ticket.
Is Wi-Fi available at the venue?
Complimentary Wi-Fi is offered in the hotel for guests, but coverage in the public areas can be intermittent (the venue is quite rural). Many reviewers note that mobile phones sometimes struggle with signal here. If you need internet access during a show, it’s wise to connect quickly before doors close (or download any tickets and maps beforehand). Don’t rely on high-speed Wi-Fi during the event – it’s best for basic browsing and messages only.
What is the capacity of the venue?
The Opononi Hotel is a small regional venue. There is no official stadium-style capacity posted, but the total occupancy (including bar and dining areas) is on the order of a couple of hundred people. In practice, the hotel can hold roughly 150–200 guests in a concert configuration. For private functions or community events, the dining room seats about 60 and the lounge another 30 comfortably, with additional standing room on the floor. Capacity is limited, so many popular nights do sell out below ~150 tickets.
