Overview
Another kick in the guts is forecast for the local music industry with one of the country most recognisable live venues set to go under the hammer next month.
Located at 57-59 France St in Eden Terrace, The Kings Arms Tavern has been a staple for live music for the past 20 years, hosting countless touring bands on its unusually high stage, including appearances from The White Stripes and The National before they were famous, The Black Keys, Beirut, Animal Collective, and an endless list of treasured local acts.
The building harks back to 1880 and was established as a pub in the '80s by Maureen Gordon. Her daughter Lisa later introduced a minimal P.A system to the garden bar. The space includes the main venue area— ideal for those wanting to get in the thick of it— a large and sunny beer garden and a sports bar out back.
Maureen gave reason of the sale to stuff.co.nz, "We're very reluctant to walk way from the music scene but overheads and expenses are pretty high. Rates and all those things come into it. And it's very valuable land that's sitting there."
The building and surrounding land is zoned as 'mixed use' under the Auckland Unitary Plan. With potential for a 32.5m height allowance it is likely the venue will be flattened by developers. We can only hope for a true rock 'n' roll property mogul saviour.
The Kings Arms Tavern goes up for tender on October 26, 2016.