We love Roots Bar and The Mussel Inn

#WELOVEROOTSBARANDTHEMUSSELINN #SAVEOURVENUES #SAVEOURVENUESNZ

Over the hill, not far away, Roots Bar and The Mussel Inn are the heart of Golden Bay’s live music scene.

Hosting 5 or 6 gigs a week between us over the summer and frequent offerings throughout the year, our community and visitors have been spoilt for choice.

From local high school kids and jam sessions, to nationally and internationally renowned artists, we draw a wide range of appreciators in to listen, dance, sing, chill, relax and enjoy.

It could be a string quartet from Berlin, or drum’n’bass beats from Takaka; acid-croft from Edinburgh, or country singer from Gore; a 12-piece band from Wellington, or singer song writer from Taranaki……. the range of offerings is open ended.

The last few years especially have seen Roots Bar and The Mussel Inn grow to become iconic venues among known and up and coming kiwi and international musos. Very special places to many touring acts. 

These days, some would almost consider it a rite of passage to play Golden Bay on their tour circuit. 
Both venues are a mecca of warm hospitality, homely atmosphere and huge vibes the music loving  loyal locals and travellers bring to the shows.

Referred to often as “… my favourite place to play in NZ” Music is our heart and soul but not our cash cow.                                                                              

Behind the gig there’s much equipment to maintain and organisation to be managed.                    

Most of our musicians have travelled some distance to get here and we like to look after them.    

And so it goes. We want to keep doing this!

Run by a dedicated committee of music lovers - including Reb Fountain, Matthew Crawley (Golden Dawn / Strange News), Lucy Macrae & Tom Anderson (Whammy Bar), Rohan Evans (The Wine Cellar) and Reuben Bonner (Banished Music) - the #SAVEOURVENUES team seek to unite in support of Aotearoa's live music venues and music scene. #SAVEOURVENUES aim is to help generate support for crucial, original, small live music venues right across New Zealand, in cities and towns. And they are calling on everyone to help to raise awareness and funds, and trigger a national response strategy in support of a thriving musical culture in New Zealand.