FREE ENTRY - Just buy a drink (any - including alcohol free) & you get your bingo card.

Snippets of songs played, match them on your card & you can win great prizes (including cash)! We' will do 2 rounds - themed, or from a specific decade.

It’s better than numbers!

Open Mic Night with a Birthday Twist!

This coming Wednesday, we're celebrating one of our wonderful Open Mic regulars, Maggie

Come along from 6.30pm for an evening of live music, great company & plenty of 70s classics in Maggie's honour. Whether you're performing or just soaking up the atmosphere, everyone's welcome.

We'll have mulled wine to keep you warm, because it's midwinter after all! First taster on us!

If you'd like, bring a few snacks to share—but there's absolutely no pressure. Your company is what matters most.

At Monkey House, our Open Mic isn't just about the music—it's about community, friendship, and making new connections.

Monkey House Lounge & Cabaret Wednesday 29 July From 6.30pm

See you there for a night of music, laughter, and celebrating Maggie & all our music lovers, in style!

Tickets here: https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2026/gish-chips/whitianga

The Rockstar of NZ Comedy 'GISH' is coming out of his THC-fuel hibernation and hitting the road with a new show featuring classic hits and plenty more songs that he's going to ruin for you. For over 20 years, GISH has been one of New Zealand’s most beloved comedians, famous for his outrageous parodies that mix six strings with dodgy things. Get ready for a night where no song is safe.

Hosted by Anthony Wilson, a crowd favorite who’s performed across Aotearoa, Australia, and the UK. With quick wit, polished storytelling, and pub-worthy tales, he’ll keep the show rolling.

TICKETS HERE: https://events.humanitix.com/daniel-champagne-live-at-monkey-house-theatre-or-whitianga

The young virtuoso, recently described as “the finest guitar player of this generation,” has fallen in love with New Zealand! — and after sold-out shows around the globe, he’ll bring his now-famous live show to 25 intimate venues across the country in 2026!

“Do whatever it takes to get in the front row!”
– Roots Magazine, UK

“A generational talent that must be seen to be believed.”
– The Calgary Herald, CANADA

Truly unmissable!!!

Fun stress free dance party, for mixing and mingling

Tickets here: https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2026/kids-disco-under-12s4/whitianga

From 4.30pm-6.30pm the Kids can have a full dance party experience with great songs, party lights, a haze machine… glow sticks - the full works! $13 per child, includes a free soda/water/juice and 1 GlowStick. Plus we are lucky enough to have Matilda the Time Travelling Fairy here to facepaint all (included in the entry price - how cool is that?!). There’s also spot prizes for best dressed. Lots of fun for kids & parents alike! Will be selling American Hotdogs too, so dinner can be sorted - perfect for a school holiday evening.

Caregivers can also chill out in the bar with delicious cocktails, wine & beer and lots of non-alcoholic choices too.

Note: All Children must be accompanied by an adult.

90% of tickets already sold!!! https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2026/sonic-boom-live-band-concert-for-the-kids/whitianga

New Zealand’s favourite party band, The Monroes present SONIC BOOM, A concert experience just for Kids

Get ready for a high-energy concert made especially for tots to tweens, packed with epic singalongs, wild dance moments, and nonstop fun. With full professional live band, expect flashy guitar solos, glamorous costumes, and that signature Monroes rockstar vibe that kids (and parents) will love!

Featuring our very own superstar 10yo Indy Monroe playing drums direct from coming off stage at Totara St, Omokoroa Christmas in the Park, Balloons over Waikato, Americana festival and more!

𝗦𝗢𝗠𝗘 𝗢𝗙 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗦𝗢𝗡𝗚𝗦 𝗬𝗢𝗨'𝗟𝗟 𝗛𝗘𝗔𝗥!
K-Pop Demon Hunters
Bruno Mars
Taylor Swift
Pharell Williams
Minions
Queen
Katy Perry
Chappell Roan
Bruno Mars & Rose
Cotten Eyed Joe - Rednex/ Minions
SING
Shakira
And more..!!

𝗗𝗨𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡: Approx 1 Hour 15mins
𝗖𝗢𝗦𝗧: $25 EARLY BIRD / Under 2 Free

FREE FRIDAY EVENT with awesome music duo, Black Bean Chili Sauce

FRI JUL 10th 7PM (Doors) Friday Free Entry gig with a groovy duo that is putting the spice in all your classic tunes!  Venue will have a smokin’ hot dance floor, fun tunes & an epic Chilli Dog Combo - $13 for a beer/wine/cider/RTD & chilli dog (or regular hot dog for the non-spice fans).  Under 18s with legal guardian are welcome too for holiday weekend fun times. 

Come along & get on stage 👩‍🎤 or simply support those that are performing. Koha entry for all (just to help with the set-up costs of the night). UNDER18S CAN COME, WITH THEIR LEGAL GUARDIAN

Register Here

• Come share your music in a safe & welcoming space.

  1. Absolutely all levels encouraged.

  2. Provided gear: Excellent PA system plus foldbacks, microphones and stands. 

     • Drum Kit; Guitar Cabinet; Bass Amp and/or digital piano can be provided, but bring your own gear also if you prefer.

  3. All Ages Licensed - under 18’s must accompanied by a caregiver/parent please.

  4. 10 minute slots available, but let us know in the message if you want shorter or longer & we will try to accommodate.

  5. Preference is advance registration, but if you turn up by 7.15pm and there are available spaces on the night, we will try and slot you in.

  6. Also write a note if you would like to do anything other than Music - definitely open to Comedy, Spoken Word, Acting Monologues etc.

  7. Tends to finish up with a fun jam with all musicians playing with one another in a fun & unstructured way & totally supportive of all levels.

TICKETS HERE: https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2026/andy-dickson-the-narcs-solo-tour-oz-and-kiwi-favourites/whitianga

Andy Dickson - frontman/guitarist with Kiwi legends The Narcs - will head 'across the ditch' from Brisbane in July to entertain North Island crowds with some of his favourite Australian and New Zealand songs, from bands he is influenced by or has a personal connection with.

Get ready to sing along with Andy Dickson to songs which have become the soundtrack of our lives, from artists like INXS, Midnight Oil, Paul Kelly, Cold Chisel, DD Smash, Dance Exponents and many more.

Dickson fronted The Narcs' Top 5 NZ 80's hit 'Heart & Soul' - a staple on New Zealand radio and which continues on the playlists of classic hits radio.

At the NZ Music Awards, Dickson was Male Vocalist finalist, and with The Narcs won 'Most Popular Song Of The Year' by public vote at the 1984 RIANZ Awards for 'Heart & Soul'.

He was a member of Australian mystery group Ghostwriters in the early 90's along with the late great Rob Hirst of Midnight Oil, and Hoodoo Gurus bassist Rick Grossman. He has also toured as guitarist for country music star Shanley Del.

Over the past decade The Narcs with Andy out front, have re-emerged, thrilling New Zealand festival audiences by performing alongside fellow downunder legends like Icehouse and Jon Stevens on festival bills.

The Narcs haven't relied purely on their 80s hits. In recent years they've released 5 new singles, including 'Smile Surfing' released to coincide with their 2025 appearances at 'Sound Series' alongside OMD, Thompson Twins' Tom Bailey, and Diesel.

TICKETS HERE: https://www.undertheradar.co.nz/gig/102662/Powder-Chutes-w-Prisoners-Of-War-And-Corrosive-Moses.utr

Whitianga!

We're coming back!

We'll be in town for at Monkey House to celebrate the release of 'RIVERS', our first new single since April 2025, and the first track that will feature on our second studio album.

Joining us for a night of chunky riffs and good vibes are local legends Prisoners Of War and Corrosive Moses... both incredible bands, so get amongst it!

This is one of only two North Island Shows to celebrate the release of RIVERS, and it's All Ages... (though you need a Guardian if you're U18)... so anyone from Blue Rinses to Rugrats welcome!

Leshgooo Whiti!

TIX HERE: https://events.humanitix.com/ben-catley-whitianga

Returning for his 6th New Zealand tour from Western Australia, catch Ben Catley’s mesmerising live guitar show back in Whitianga at Monkey House Theatre!

With virtuoso acoustic guitar playing, big bluesy vocals and an ecstatic stage presence, Ben pours every ounce of his soul into his live show. Having toured all across Aus, NZ & the UK many times over, he captivates audiences like few other solo artists.

Performing on stages at the likes of Australia’s famous Bluesfest Byron Bay, Ben has played at many huge international festivals across the world featuring the likes of The Doobie Brothers, Crowded House, Xavier Rudd, John Butler, Groove Armada and many more.

With flavours of blues/roots/rock/folk, Ben weaves between huge upbeat energy and atmospheric soundscapes, creating a diverse show of guitar craftsmanship. His live show has become renowned for its finger-tapping guitar style, blistering riffs and driving grooves.

“A virtuoso guitarist… Captivating skills both vocally and on guitar.” Xpress Mag

TICKETS COMING SOON

Join former All Black John Ashworth (1977-1985) for a relaxed and entertaining guided wine tasting featuring eight exceptional wines from Ash Ridge Winery & Junction Wines.

Discover the journey from rugby paddocks to vineyard rows as John shares stories from his All Black days, the history of Ash Ridge, and the passion behind each wine.

Your ticket includes:
🍷 A guided tasting of 8 premium wines
🍇 Insights and stories from John Ashworth
🧀 A selection of delicious nibbles to accompany the wines

Wines featured:

• Ash Ridge Elodie Sparkling Brut

• Junction Pastime Pinot Gris

• Ash Ridge Imogen Chenin Blanc

• Junction Corner Post Chardonnay

• Junction Possession Pinot Noir

• Junction Body and Soul Pinot Noir

• Ash Ridge Maximus Syrah

• Winston Ruby Syrah (Port Style)

Whether you're a seasoned wine lover, a rugby fan, or simply looking for a memorable night out, this is a unique opportunity to taste, learn, and enjoy great company in an intimate setting.

Eight wines. One All Black. Countless stories. 🍷🏉

Seats are limited and expected to sell quickly. Book early to avoid missing out.

Come along & get on stage 👩‍🎤 or simply support those that are performing. Koha entry for all (just to help with the set-up costs of the night). UNDER18S CAN COME, WITH THEIR LEGAL GUARDIAN

Register Here

• Come share your music in a safe & welcoming space.

  1. Absolutely all levels encouraged.

  2. Provided gear: Excellent PA system plus foldbacks, microphones and stands. 

     • Drum Kit; Guitar Cabinet; Bass Amp and/or digital piano can be provided, but bring your own gear also if you prefer.

  3. All Ages Licensed - under 18’s must accompanied by a caregiver/parent please.

  4. 10 minute slots available, but let us know in the message if you want shorter or longer & we will try to accommodate.

  5. Preference is advance registration, but if you turn up by 7.15pm and there are available spaces on the night, we will try and slot you in.

  6. Also write a note if you would like to do anything other than Music - definitely open to Comedy, Spoken Word, Acting Monologues etc.

  7. Tends to finish up with a fun jam with all musicians playing with one another in a fun & unstructured way & totally supportive of all levels.

Bringing Broadway and the West End to Whitianga, one show tune at a time! Your time to shine or at least have fun on stage!

After Music Bingo, so do one or do both!

FREE ENTRY - Just buy a drink (any - including alcohol free) & you get your bingo card.

Snippets of songs played, match them on your card & you can win great prizes (including cash)! We' will do 3 rounds - themed, or from a specific decade.

It’s better than numbers!

Ask us about private hire

Tickets include Gin Cocktail on arrival https://www.eventfinda.co.nz/2026/gin-jazz-with-billie-the-bootleggers/whitianga

Gin Cocktails & a post-modern jukebox style band - oh yes, this is gonna be one swell night!

Step back in time for an evening of glamour, gin, and live music as Billie & The Bootleggers bring their post-modern jukebox style to Monkey House Lounge & Cabaret. Expect vintage-inspired reinterpretations of modern favourites, delivered with irresistible swing, sass, and old-school sophistication.

For one night only, Monkey House transforms into a 1920s-style prohibition speakeasy. Your ticket includes a handcrafted gin cocktail on arrival, plus a guided gin tasting from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM, featuring a selection of distinctive botanicals & flavour profiles to set the tone for the evening.

Slip into your finest vintage attire, sharp suits, flapper dresses, feathers, sequins, and all the sparkle you can muster. Dressing up is strongly encouraged, so dress to impress and prepare for a night of smooth jazzy tunes, spirited cocktails, and a touch of Gatsby-era decadence.

Come along & get on stage 👩‍🎤 or simply support those that are performing. Koha entry for all (just to help with the set-up costs of the night). UNDER18S CAN COME, WITH THEIR LEGAL GUARDIAN

Register Here

• Come share your music in a safe & welcoming space.

  1. Absolutely all levels encouraged.

  2. Provided gear: Excellent PA system plus foldbacks, microphones and stands. 

     • Drum Kit; Guitar Cabinet; Bass Amp and/or digital piano can be provided, but bring your own gear also if you prefer.

  3. All Ages Licensed - under 18’s must accompanied by a caregiver/parent please.

  4. 10 minute slots available, but let us know in the message if you want shorter or longer & we will try to accommodate.

  5. Preference is advance registration, but if you turn up by 7.15pm and there are available spaces on the night, we will try and slot you in.

  6. Also write a note if you would like to do anything other than Music - definitely open to Comedy, Spoken Word, Acting Monologues etc.

  7. Tends to finish up with a fun jam with all musicians playing with one another in a fun & unstructured way & totally supportive of all levels.

$20 TICKETS HERE: https://www.undertheradar.co.nz/gig/102052/TEST-Brazil-NZ-Tour.utr‍ ‍with local openers CHARLIES VENDETTA & CORROSIVE MOSES

Couldn’t be more thrilled to present legendary DIY grindcore band TEST touring throughout the North Island of New Zealand for the first time this June.

For the uninitiated, TEST is a Brazilian duo formed in 2010 by João Kombi (guitar and vocals) and Barata (drums), two veterans of São Paulo’s underground scene. Known for their intense live performances, notable collaborations with artists like Iggor Cavalera and Deafkids, and a fearless musical approach, the band has established itself as one of the most inventive names in the Brazilian alternative scene.

From the deathgrind band initially known for playing outside of major heavy metal concerts, fueled by a old school VW van-powered generator, Test has gone a long way since 2011, when the band started playing on the streets. Since then, the band has shared stages - inside the venue this time, be it as opening band or headlining - with artists such as Mr Bungle, King Diamond, Napalm Death, Carcass, Cannibal Corpse, Exodus e Brujeria, Mayhem, Mortician, Dillinger Escape Plan, to name a few. Speaking of name-dropping, some famous Test fans include Shane Embury, Napalm Death’s bass player, and the brothers Max and Iggor Cavalera - Iggor, by the way, has chosen Test’s drummer on the top 10 drummers of all time.

Aside from performing with well-know heavy metal artists, Test also took part in two of the major extreme music festivals worldwide: “Obscene Extreme”, in the Czech Republic and Mexico, and “Maryland Deathfest”, in the US. With a steady recording and playing live pace, Test turns sixteen years old with 19 albums (full-lenghts, EPs and split-album with bands from different parts of the world, like Nepal [Chepang], U.S.A. [Cloud Rat, Ixias] and China [Struggle Session]), two feature films, more than ten thousand records sold and more than one thousand shows in all states of Brazil, as well as twenty one foreign tours (Asia, Europe, North America and South America).


Destroying a town near you - June 2026.

From 4.30pm-6.30pm the Kids can have a full dance party experience with great songs, party lights, a haze machine… glow sticks - the full works! $10 per child, includes a free soda/water/juice and 1 GlowStick. Plus we are lucky enough to have Matilda the Time Travelling Fairy here to facepaint all (included in the entry price - how cool is that?!). There’s also spot prizes for best dressed. Lots of fun for kids & parents alike!

Caregivers can also chill out in the bar with delicious cocktails, wine & beer and lots of non-alcoholic choices too.

Note: All Children must be accompanied by an adult.

FREE ENTRY - Just buy a drink (any - including alcohol free) & you get your bingo card.

Snippets of songs played, match them on your card & you can win great prizes (including cash)!

We’ll have some fun music trivia too (multichoice)

Ask us about private hire

GONNA DO A ONE-OFF SATURDAY OPEN MIC, IN LIGHT OF NZ MUSIC MONTH

Come along & get on stage 👩‍🎤 or simply support those that are performing. Koha entry for all (just to help with the set-up costs of the night). UNDER18S CAN COME, WITH THEIR LEGAL GUARDIAN

Register Here

• Come share your music in a safe & welcoming space.

  1. Absolutely all levels encouraged.

  2. Provided gear: Excellent PA system plus foldbacks, microphones and stands. 

     • Drum Kit; Guitar Cabinet; Bass Amp and/or digital piano can be provided, but bring your own gear also if you prefer.

  3. All Ages Licensed - under 18’s must accompanied by a caregiver/parent please.

  4. 10 minute slots available, but let us know in the message if you want shorter or longer & we will try to accommodate.

  5. Preference is advance registration, but if you turn up by 7.15pm and there are available spaces on the night, we will try and slot you in.

  6. Also write a note if you would like to do anything other than Music - definitely open to Comedy, Spoken Word, Acting Monologues etc.

  7. Tends to finish up with a fun jam with all musicians playing with one another in a fun & unstructured way & totally supportive of all levels.

FREE ENTRY

Neon. Big hair. Bigger moves. And a big cash prize for best costume 🕺✨

Step back into the decade of excess for a massive night of 80s anthems, outrageous outfits, and non-stop dancing at Monkey House Lounge & Cabaret.

From Madonna to Michael Jackson, Prince to Bon Jovi, we’ll be spinning all the songs you know and love from one of the greatest decades in music.

🎉 Free Entry
🕗 Saturday 23 May | 8:00 PM – Midnight
🏆 $100 Cash Prize for Best 80s Costume
🍸 Bar Tabs for Other Prize Winners

Dust off the leg warmers, tease up your hair, and dress to impress. Whether you're rocking neon, leather, shoulder pads, or full glam, this is your chance to strut your stuff and win.

Totally awesome. Totally free. Totally 80s. 🎶💃🕺

Green Karaoke. $5 entry. Sing your fave green songs & crowd favourites, whilst supporting the Green Party campaign.

FREE EVENT

Meet like-minded people in a fun, welcoming atmosphere. A relaxed evening of drinks & conversation is on the cards at the Monkey House.
To help get chats flowing, we’ll also have a fun OPTIONAL icebreaker game with easy prompts & prizes, so it’s simple to strike up a chat with someone new.
Whether you’re looking for romance, friendship, or just a great night out, this is a welcoming and low-pressure way to connect with local singles.

*PS Bring along your wingman/wing-woman if that makes you more comfortable too.