Auckland folk scene
An overview of what’s available here in Tāmaki Makarau/Auckland
FOLK CLUBS
-
Devonport Folk Club
Takuranga/Mt Victoria - Devonport Folk Music Club meets every Monday, and some other nights, at the historic command post, “The Bunker”, in Devonport. The best local and visiting overseas singers and musicians are hosted at Club Nights and Concert Nights. They make a good, inexpensive night out in the company of friends. Club nights – 8pm Mondays, concert nights vary. Visit website here
-
East Coast Bays Folk Club
Torbay Senior Citizens Social Centre - East Coast Folk Club meets the first Friday of the month to enjoy live acoustic music in many folk genres. Usually they feature a guest artist or group, and the first half of the programme is made up of “floorsingers” – a variety of performers who turn up on the night. Club nights – 8pm, first Friday of each month (except January)
-
Rafters Music Club
The Unitarian Church, 1a Ponsonby Road. Rafters is a friendly, relaxed, music club that showcases music from contemporary to blues to traditional. Floor singers first half, guests second half, with a bit of supper in between. Third Friday of every month. Club nights - 8pm, third Friday of each month Visit website here
-
Auckland Bluegrass Club
The Nix, 6 Nixon St, Grey Lynn - Bluegrass, Old Timey, Western Swing and Americana goodness. All are welcome, come to one of their monthly club nights for some good tunes and good vibes. Club nights – 7.30pm, second Wednesday of the month
-
Titirangi Folk Music Club
Titirangi Beach Hall - Tititrangi Folk Music Club has provided a performance venue for local acoustic musicians (and good times for audiences!) since 1965. It has been the breeding ground for much prodigious musical talent. Friday Folk – 7.30pm, fourth Friday of each month Club nights – 8pm, second Saturday of each month. Visit website here.
-
Barebones Acoustic Folk Club
Workshop 26, 26 Donovan St, Blockhouse Bay - Meets regularly at a lovely informal venue, with a mix of floor spots and guest artists from near and far. Dates vary - keep up to date on the Facebook page. Visit Facebook here
FOLK DANCE
-
Irish Set Dancing
The Auckland Irish Society Clubhouse, Rocky Nook Bowling Club, Fowlds Park, Mt. Albert - First and third Thursdays each month (except Jan.) Contact: Sue and John Sheehan phone: (09) 445 9105 or 027 488 8733
-
Scottish Country Dancing
There are a number of active Scottish Country Dancing groups in Auckland who meet regularly throughout the week. Please click here to be taken to the Royal Scottish Country Dancing NZ website to find a group near you.
-
City of Auckland Morris
City of Auckland morris have been performing traditional English dances in Auckland for over 40 years. All welcome, no partners required, detailed expert tuition provided. A lively and energetic side with dances from the Cotswolds and Border regions of the UK.
-
Auckland Biannual Ceilidhs
Biannual ceilidhs (social dances) with a live band and experienced caller. These events usually run over two nights due to huge demand!
-
English Country Dancing & Early Dance
St John’s Church Hall, Church St, Northcote, 7:30pm. English Country/Folk Dance on the second Friday of the month and Early Dance on the fourth Friday of the month. The Early Dance group covers European (English/French/Italian) historical dance from the 15th to 19th centuries. There is a wide range of styles and music, many are simple and some more complex. Beginners are always welcome in both groups.
-
Balfolk Auckland
St Stephen's Church Hall 65 Jervois Rd - a weekly dance gathering in which traditional European dance forms are presented as a vibrant experience. Mondays 7pm – 8.30pm, $15
-
Hillsborough Ceilidhs
St David's in the Fields, 202 Hillsborough Rd, Hillsborough. Last Friday or the month. A ceilidh is the traditional Scottish community dance. These ceilidh dances are alcohol-free and family friendly. Everyone is welcome, a caller will explain everything and the live band will get you on your feet and dancing.