About Piha Bowling Club
The Piha Bowling Club is a small community bowling club and pub located in the Piha Domain on Auckland’s rugged west coast. Established in 1955, this volunteer-run club is unique for its natural grass bowling green set right beside Piha’s iconic black-sand beach. The club’s heritage timber clubhouse and lawn bowls green offer a laid-back seaside setting – one of New Zealand’s last real grass greens for bowls. Visitors often remark that it feels like a beachside shed as much as a sports venue. The scenic backdrop – Waitākere Ranges forest behind and the Pacific Ocean ahead – gives Piha Bowling Club a charm unlike city centres. In Kiwi slang it’s often just called “the Bowler.” It has never been a polished, commercial venue; instead it’s notable for community spirit. Locals built the original clubrooms and later extended them (the current pavilion dates to 1963, with a memorial garden out front). Throughout its 70+ years Piha Bowling Club has doubled as Piha’s social hub. In the early days it hosted dances and celebrations, and today you might catch live acoustic music or community fundraisers in the lounge. The club remains small (capacity seating for perhaps 80-100 indoors) but its cozy atmosphere, log fires, and friendly locals capture a true Kiwi beach-town feeling.
Events and Programming
Piha Bowling Club’s calendar is built around bowls competitions and local gatherings rather than big commercial shows. The green sees regular tournaments and roll-up competitions during the summer months. **Weekly and monthly events** are often club-centric: for example the famous “Have-A-Go” bowls night every summer Wednesday allows anyone (young or old) to try playing for a small fee. Members and visitors of all skill levels take part in casual games, and mid-winter Aucklander sports like rugby or league are shown on the screens in the bar. Occasionally you’ll find one-off community events or fundraisers. The clubhouse has hosted school group gatherings, family birthdays, or even small wedding parties on the green. Local surf or life-saving club members often organise mixed team challenges with Piha Bowling Club members. There is also a regular monthly market day (the third Sunday of each month) on the domain, during which the club opens every stall for extra hours to welcome market-goers. Live music and social nights happen from time to time – in fact, the club has a tradition of jam nights open to anyone with a guitar or even a tea-chest bass. Acoustic performances, karaoke evenings or jam sessions often pop up during the warmer seasons. In all events, most are low-cost or donation-based. Entry to club tournaments and fun nights is usually free for spectators; casual meals or drinks at the bar carry normal pub prices (a beer costs a few dollars, mains around $20-$25). If a special event ever does charge (for example, a charity dinner or big party), tickets are typically very affordable and bought directly from the club. Keep an eye on Piha newsletters and social media for announcements. In short, Piha Bowling Club’s programming focuses on bowls play and community fun rather than mainstream concerts – you’ll find bowler tournaments, combined club days, market afternoons and occasional local music nights rather than arena tours.
Tickets and Booking
Most of Piha Bowling Club’s activities don’t involve formal ticketing. There is no public box office or online ticket platform. Regular coaching, roll-ups and competitions are either free to attend (viewing) or require simple on-the-spot sign-up. For example, the Wednesday “Have-A-Go” night just needs $5 cash from non-members on arrival. Club tournaments usually require members to register beforehand with the club secretary (and subscription or small event fee as noted on their noticeboard), but spectators just turn up and watch. If you want to join as a casual player or member, you can buy a membership (around $80 stamp) or day-license through the club’s website or bar. If you’re planning a private event (like a group hire of the venue for a party or workshop), bookings are arranged by contacting the club directly (email [email protected] or call the number on their site). The venue hire brochure notes that the club is available for corporate outings, weddings or community gatherings – details are handled by the executive committee. In short, there are no mainstream ticket-sales channels here. The best strategy is to check the club’s official channels (or local community Facebook groups) for any special event announcements. Popular nights (like quiz or music nights when they happen) simply fill up on a first-come basis, so arriving a little early is wise. For paid events, ring the club or email ahead to reserve your spot. Tickets, if any, are sold at the door or by contacting the organizer – there’s no external ticket site, so everything is organised in-house.
Seating and Layout
Piha Bowling Club is an intimate, single-story venue. Inside there is one main lounge/bar area with a low wooden ceiling, a few tables and chairs, and some cosy armchairs by the fireplace. There is no large auditorium; instead the “stage” is usually just the corner of the lounge or the open end of the veranda. For indoor seating, choose a spot near the windows or the bar – from most tables you can see both the bar TV and some of the bowling green outside. The walls have old sports photos and club memorabilia, giving a rustic feel. Outdoors, spectators at bowls games typically stand or sit informally around the manicured lawn. There are no fixed stands or VIP enclosures. If you want the best view of players or live music on the porch, try to arrive early and claim a seat by the green-side veranda or along the side benches. The veranda deck (looking west to Lion Rock) is nice for watching sunset games – it offers good sightlines of the green and a view out to sea. A word on acoustics: live music indoors is usually without a PA, so vocals and instruments carry in the cozy room, but on the lawn any amplification is minimal (you hear the ocean and breeze as much as the band). The general admission layout is very casual: there are no numbered seats or sections. If the club runs an event that draws a crowd, people mill around with standing and seated areas mixed. Because it’s a bowling club, there’s also the actual greens. You can usually see the chalk lines and boundary markers of the bowling rink next to the club. If a match is on, avoid sitting on or near the green itself – it’s reserved for players in whites! Overall, Piha Bowling Club’s layout invites a picnic-style, community experience rather than a formal performance seating arrangement.
Getting There and Parking
The club’s address is 21 Seaview Road, Piha Domain, Piha, Auckland. It sits right by the Piha lagoon entrance (on Seaview Rd at Domain Rd). Most visitors drive to Piha. From Auckland city take Scenic Drive (Highway 16 west through Titirangi and Waitākere). Continue along the winding road up the coast – Piha Village is about 40 minutes from Henderson or roughly an hour from downtown Auckland. Follow signs from the main carpark (the Piha Domain car park) – once you park there, the club is a few hundred metres’ walk to the north, across from the public hall and campground. As Piha is a weekend holiday spot, parking fills up fast on fine days. The Piha Domain car park (near the Domain Motor Camp reception) is the best option and mostly free. Some street parking is available along Seaview Road and Domain Road; use it courteously without blocking driveways. There are no special club parking stalls, just public parking spaces. If coming by ride-share or taxi, the best drop-off is at Domain Road near the Piha Store or Domain carpark. Don’t stop on the highway. If arriving by public transit, the AT bus service (routes 381 and 382) runs from Swanson or Glen Eden stations to Piha Road. (Check Auckland Transport’s latest timetable: buses stop near the Domain carpark.) From the bus stop, it’s a short walk up to the club. Note that Piha Road sometimes closes after heavy rains due to slips, so check local updates on travel delays. Alternative tour shuttles and minibuses also run daily between central Auckland and Piha (ticketed shuttle around $20 one-way with pick-up in the city). These drop off in Piha Village near the Domain. In summary: driving is easiest, with ample free parking around the Domain; buses are infrequent but available from West Auckland; ride-share/taxi is costly but doable; or join a Piha shuttle tour that stops nearby.
Inside the Venue
When you step inside Piha Bowling Club, expect a relaxed, rustic clubhouse atmosphere. There’s no fancy foyer or security gate – most evenings people just wander in through a side or front door marked by a small sign. A friendly volunteer behind the bar or the door might greet you. The interior is one open-plan room with wooden floors and ceiling beams, a lit fireplace (in cooler months), and a big picture window looking out to the ocean. The bar counter is straight ahead, stocked with local craft beers on tap and bottles behind. Menus from the Coastal Beach Diner kitchen (inside the club) are available at tables or the bar. You order food and drinks at the bar or on the verandah (food kitchen closes around 8pm). Expect simple Kiwi pub fare and rotating specials – there’s always a hearty curry or fish & chips, plus daily dishes by Chef Dhruv. Credit cards are generally accepted but carrying a bit of cash is handy for the small bar tabs and have-a-go bowls. The seating is casual: wooden tables and chairs fill the room, plus a few lounge chairs by the heater. Benches line one wall. There is no cloakroom; guests usually leave bikes outside and jackets on chair backs. Restrooms (toilets) are at the back of the clubhouse – one men’s, one women’s (both reasonably clean). Standard note: these are old-style loos so allow for a quick line-up if busy. No dedicated baby-change room – parents share a stall. The club likely has at least one unisex accessible toilet (wheelchair symbol usually posted), but if in doubt call ahead. Phone reception can be spotty at Piha. Inside the club 2Degrees and Spark NZ networks often have a signal; but Wi-Fi is not reliably offered to guests (don’t count on it). If you need internet or cell data, try near the window or step outside. The club is generally very tranquilo. On quiet nights you’ll hear the surf rolling in; on busier weekend evenings it fills with chatter and sometimes live guitar or low-key music by local artists. Piha Bowling Club has an easygoing vibe: dress is beach casual (tees, shorts, jandals – even barefoot bowls is common on the veranda, as long as shoes are off before stepping on the green itself). The staff and members auto-dial Kiwi hospitality: it’s normal for the bar staff to call you “love” or “mate”, and to chat as if you’re a local. Do bring your ID if you look under 25 – it is a licensed bar after all. Photography by patrons is fine (people often snap photos of the green and sunset), but out of respect, ask permission if you’re filming someone’s performance. One small undiscussed policy: outside alcohol is prohibited (NZ law), and umbrellas or beach gear need to be stowed away if crowding the step. Otherwise you’re free to roam. In short, inside the Bowler you’ll find a cozy barroom, community photos or awards on the walls, a warm atmosphere, and friendly locals – it feels more like a village pub than a formal events hall.
Nearby Amenities
The Piha Bowling Club sits in Piha Village, so several convenience and food options are just a short walk away. Directly across Domain Road is the Piha Store (& Takeaways) – a classic surf-shop/general store with a small kitchen. Here you can grab fish & chips, burgers or pizza (the store is famous for its cheap coffees and basic Thai curries too). Also nearby is Hook’s Fish & Chips (a chain outlet) and a stand-alone burger van that operates seasonally. If you drive a bit further, the Piha Surf Life Saving Club (near Lion Rock at the north end of the beach) has a licensed bar and café menu with great ocean views – it’s family-friendly and open most nights. Piha has no large hotels, but there is local accommodation: the Piha Domain Motor Camp (caravan park) adjacent to the club offers cabins and camping (reserve in advance during summer). A few cozy Airbnbs and holiday houses dot the village. If you need groceries, the Piha Store has basics; for anything more you’ll have to stop in Henderson or Titirangi on the drive. After a late show at the bowls club, note that Piha is a small village – licensed venues close by about 11pm, and there’s no late-night public transport. If you want pre-show meals, arrive at least 90 minutes early to try one of the local eateries. For example, The Thai Bowl is a popular pop-up serving curry bowls a couple of nights a week (often parked by the dojo), or the Piha Beachstay cafe does breakfast and lunch. Many locals grab a wrap or coffee from the store before heading to the club. If you’re staying overnight, options include the nearby campground or small lodgings; the closest 24-hour convenience is still Auckland. For rides home, pre-book a taxi in advance (on weekends they queue up in Piha but may run out of cars). Rideshare apps work poorly this far out, so arrange transport ahead if you plan to stay late. In sum: expect a handful of casual bars, cafes and takeaways within a 5-minute walk, but don’t count on a variety of restaurants like in the city. Piha’s eateries are basic but friendly, matching the club’s relaxed vibe.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Piha Bowling Club’s charm comes from being unmistakably community-driven and uniquely Kiwi. Its most famous tagline is that it’s where “the real green meets the black sand.” Unlike high-gloss arenas, this place is steeped in West Coast heritage: built by local families who gave labor and materials. Every plank of wood and every bowl on the green reflects 70 years of Piha history. The building itself still has the character of a 1960s lawn-bowling clubhouse, complete with a hand-painted “Piha Bowling Club” sign and thatched garden corner dedicated to pioneering members. Even the Seymour Lounge (an extended section of the clubrooms) tells a story of volunteers putting up timber in the late 1960s. Locals often describe the Bowler as more than a venue – it’s a meeting house for the valley. Many famous moments in Piha’s story took place here: jam nights with local legends (like Des Pike playing country tunes on a tea-chest bass), fundraising drives for local causes, and inter-club challenges against the surf lifesaving or RSA. It’s a living piece of New Zealand’s “give it a go” culture. The atmosphere is famously welcoming: artists and audiences alike appreciate that if someone is performing, they really do it for the fun rather than for pay. Bowls champions as well as first-timers mingle with tourists in bare feet after a rainy beach stint. The club’s bar stocks award-winning New Zealand wines and home-brew beers, but often the real drink of choice is friendship and conversation across a shared table. For surfers finishing a dawn patrol and for retirees mellowing out, Piha Bowling Club serves as a social anchor. Its sea breeze-cooled green has glowed in countless gorgeous sunsets, and on stormy days its hearth and home-made dinners have provided refuge for the local community. In other words, the Bowler isn’t famous for huge concerts or lightning effects – its fame is the laid-back, inclusive Kiwi beach-town spirit that no big city venue can match. Both locals and visitors love its authenticity. Artists enjoy singing in there because you’ll get honest feedback and real karaoke applause, not just polite claps. Audiences love it because it feels like being entertained in a friend’s lounge rather than a corporate venue. When events end, people often spill out onto the lawn and continue chatting under the stars. That small and unpretentious setting – combined with island-like scenery – makes Piha Bowling Club truly one-of-a-kind.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The club’s main lounge is on one level, but note it’s an older building with just a short step at the door. If you need a ramp or accessible entrance, call ahead as the crew can help. The interior doors and restrooms are fairly wide, but not brand-new disability-equipped; check in case you need special access. The green and surrounding paths are flat grass and gravel, OK for manual wheelchair navigation. Service animals are welcome. The club’s website and local guides don’t highlight any special ADA facilities, so for detailed questions (like hearing loops or tactile maps) it’s best to phone the club directly. However, volunteers are usually happy to assist anyone needing a bit of help. Dress & Gear: Dress is very casual. Feel free to wear flip-flops (“jandals”), shorts, board shorts or whatever you like. A warm jumper or jacket is wise for evenings, as sea breeze can be chilly after dark. If you plan to join the bowling on the green, bring flat-soled shoes (even joggers are fine) or go barefoot on the sand side. High heels and spiked shoes must be left at the door; carrying any sports equipment (bowling balls, etc.) is possible, though the club will provide bowls and mats for newbies. Sunhat and sunscreen are smart on sunny days – the green is quite exposed. Food & Drink: The Coastal Beach Diner kitchen runs Thursday–Sunday evenings, but closes early (usually by 8pm). If coming expecting dinner, arrive by 7pm to order. On market Sundays the kitchen may open earlier. Outside those hours, the club has only a drinks menu (beer, wine, soft drinks). If you have dietary needs (gluten-free, vegetarian), let the kitchen know – they’re used to accommodating beachgoers, though the menu is simple pub fare. Bringing outside food is discouraged (the club relies on its kitchen and license sales to stay open). Bringing your own snacks is not forbidden, but do ask staff first. The bar allows BYO glasses of wine if you’ve purchased a bottle at the club, but not outside liquor. Crowd and Conduct: Piha Bowling Club is very family-friendly. Children and teens are welcome, especially early in the evening. (It’s still a bar so they need to be accompanied at all times.) Late at night the crowd is a mix of local regulars and surf-minded folks winding down. Don’t be surprised if the place has an impromptu singalong – Kangaroo Court-style fun is part of its character. Be respectful of the lawn: no kicking balls or running on the green if a game is in progress. Everyone is expected to follow common courtesy: staff will typically smile and nod “no worries,” but if anything bothers you (like too much smoke around your seat or spilled drink), just ask. Common Mistakes: A couple of things first-timers tend to miss: 1) **Check the timetable.** The club is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays; from Wednesday it opens again in the late afternoon (4pm Thurs–Fri, 3pm on weekends). Don’t show up at noon expecting it to be open. 2) **Parking already filled?** If the Domain car park is full, you’ll have to park in Piha Village center and walk 10 minutes (downhill). Give yourself extra time on summer weekends. 3) **Bookings:** If you need the kitchen, call ahead. The Coastal Beach Diner is popular, so on busy nights it might be fully booked. 4) **Toilets:** Don’t wait until halfway through a show to look for the bathroom – lines can form. Those are through a side door at the back; keep an eye out in case you need them. 5) **Sunset crowds:** If you want a prime view, be aware that many visitors come just to watch the sunset from the veranda. Arrive 30 minutes early to get a seat by the deck fence. 6) **Rides home:** If you’re relying on a taxi or shuttle, it’s best to arrange the return leg before the night ends, as drivers don’t patrol Piha after hours. What to Bring: A mobile device for Alm’s the time (and good walking shoes if you plan to see Piha’s trails after). But importantly, bring a sense of adventure and a friendly attitude. Piha Bowling Club is at its best when guests are open to mingling – you might end up on a team with surfers and seniors alike. If you have bowls shoes or two pairs of socks, you’ll be set for the green; if not, shoes are offered on site. Bring cash for bar tabs or vending machines (they accept cards, but the loos do not take coins). And of course, bring your beach gear – Piha’s stunning lagoon and Lion Rock beach are just a stroll away for a pre- or post-event dip. Finally, always carry a light jacket or windbreaker – evenings can turn brisk by the ocean. Follow these tips and you’ll fit right in like a local while experiencing the unique charm of Piha Bowling Club.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to Piha Bowling Club by public transport?
Piha is accessible by AT Metro bus from West Auckland. Buses 380/381 run from stations like Swanson and Glen Eden to Piha Road. They stop near the Domain carpark (ask driver for Piha Domain). From there the club is a short 5-minute walk. Check Auckland Transport’s website or app for the latest route info. Service is infrequent (hourly-ish), especially on weekends, so plan accordingly.
Is there parking available at the Piha Bowling Club?
Yes. Park in the free Piha Domain carpark right beside the club (off Domain Road) – it’s about 100m from the club entrance. Street parking along Seaview Road is limited, so the Domain carpark is recommended. On busy days this fills up, so arrive early or find side streets near Piha Store. Always park legally and avoid blocking driveways.
When are the Piha Bowling Club opening hours?
The club is open late Wed through Sunday. In summer it opens at 4pm on Wed and 4pm on Thurs–Fri, 3pm on Sat, and 3pm on Sun. In winter Wed may be closed. Kitchen dining runs from 4pm (Wed–Sun) until around 8pm. The bar stays open later on Fri–Sat (usually 11pm–midnight). Check locally as times can vary, especially in winter or for market/event days.
Do I need a membership to play or watch bowls there?
No membership is required just to visit or watch. You can enjoy the bar, dining, and lounge without joining. To play bowls in club competitions or hire a rink, you’d typically take out a membership or pay a one-off fee for a casual roll-up. But feel free to drop in any night – members and visitors mix freely.
Is Piha Bowling Club wheelchair accessible?
The clubhouse is mostly single-level, which helps accessibility. There is a small step at the entrance, so contact the club if a ramp or special access is needed. The main room doorways are wide, and the restrooms include at least one accessible toilet. Access to the lawn is on a flat path. Clients with mobility issues typically find it manageable, but it’s best to phone ahead about any specific needs.
What is the dress code at Piha Bowling Club?
There is no formal dress code. People usually dress casually – think beach-town attire like shorts, T-shirts, even boardshorts or “jandals” (flip-flops). For playing bowls you’ll wear a club shirt and clean flat shoes (trainers or barefoot is fine). Evening temperatures can drop, so layering up (like a hoodie or jacket) is smart. Just keep outfits neat; very casual wear is normal at Piha.
Can I bring my own food or alcohol to the club?
Outside alcohol is not allowed (licensing law), and outside meals are discouraged since the club has its own kitchen. If you have special dietary needs, you can ask the staff for accommodations. Generally, guests buy drinks from the bar and food from the Coastal Beach Diner (club kitchen). Bringing non-perishable snacks and eating quietly might be tolerated, but best is to enjoy the club’s offerings.
Do they serve vegetarian or gluten-free food?
Yes, the Coastal Beach Diner menu usually includes vegetarian options (curries, salads, fries, etc.) and some dishes can be adapted gluten-free (they’ll often offer gluten-free sides or substitutes). It’s not a specialist menu, so choices are simple, but the chef is fairly customizable. If you have serious allergies, mention them when ordering to be safe.
Is Piha Bowling Club family-friendly?
Yes. The club has a friendly, laid-back atmosphere that welcomes families. You’ll often see kids on summer afternoons playing on the lawn or trying bowls with parents. The menu has kid-friendly food, and the setting is very casual. Just note that after 8pm it’s a licensed premises, so under-18s must stay with adults and not enter the bar area alone. Otherwise it’s a great place for all ages.
What are the fees for bowls or events?
Bowls itself has minimal fees: casual “have-a-go” nights charge around $5 per non-member, and members pay an annual subscription (roughly $80 adult). Club tournaments have a small entry fee (often under $10) included in membership benefits. Spectating most free. Bar and food are priced like any local pub (main dishes ~$15–$25, drinks similar to a city bar). No big ticketed shows happen here, so you rarely pay more than a few dollars to join events.
Is there ATM or cash machine nearby?
There is no ATM in Piha Village. The nearest cash machine is in Waitākere or Glen Eden. The club bar accepts cards, but smaller purchases (like market stall snacks) are cash-only. It’s wise to bring some cash for small amounts or souvenirs – card machines occasionally go offline in this rural area.
Are pets or dogs allowed at the club?
Pets are not allowed inside the clubhouse for health and safety reasons. Service animals are of course permitted. You will see dogs outside in Piha Domain, but please don’t bring pets into the bar or lounge. Outside, any pet should be on a leash and well-behaved, but generally it’s best to leave them parked in your car or at home if you plan a long stay.
What can I do if I want to hold a private event there?
For private functions, contact the club directly (email [email protected] or ring the number on our website). They offer venue hire for birthdays, meetings, workshops, weddings, etc. Give as much notice as possible. The club provides the space, tables, chairs and often can arrange catering through the Coastal Beach Diner. At peak times there may be a deposit or hire fee, but it tends to be reasonable compared to city venues. They’ll also guide you on logistics like if you need to book the kitchen or arrange extra parking.
Is Wi-Fi available at Piha Bowling Club?
The club does not advertise public Wi-Fi. Mobile phone coverage (Spark/2Degrees) can be spotty inside, although standing by a window or on the deck usually helps. Don’t count on a strong internet connection; it’s best to come prepared with whatever you need offline. Some locals pull data by positioning phones on the headland outside, but casual visitors should assume it’s a more unplugged experience.
