About Danger Danger

The biggest Party Bar north of Auckland.

Built on what was an old butcher’s shop, which eventually became the site of the now defunct Deka retail chain. The venue features original kauri trusses and brickwork, complemented by recycled native timber which was obtained from throughout New Zealand including an old blacksmith’s shop in Ohakune (you will note the soot impregnated timber in certain places), matai from the Waiouru Military Camp and rimu from the Wellington Museum.

Memorabilia from the past adorns the walls and this was gathered from a variety of sources from as far a field as Wanganui, Te Aroha and Waihi. Local artists were involved in the restoration and in some cases, re-engineering the creations which became light fittings. The traditional chalk work above the bar was completed by a very young local sign writer. For those of you who can remember well, you will pick up the error on one of the signs.

Naming the venue was made easier when, upon demolition, the words, ‘Danger! Danger’ were found crudely painted on one of the kauri trusses. Maybe this had something to do with the tragic incident 60 years ago when a Tiger Moth crashed into the entrance of the building. This may explain why some of the trusses were missing. Two airmen from the Onerahi Base 21st Army Cooperation Squadron died instantly in the accident. Coincidentally, they had been promoting a party which was to be held in the Whangarei Town Hall and had been flying upside down to attract people’s attention. They clipped a power pole just as they were turning up the right way. The airmen, Flying Officer Murray Gray, and Flight Sergeant Lucky smith, were given a full military funeral.

In 2003, much to the amazement of some Whangarei citizens, the venue received a gold medal award from the New Zealand Signwriter’s Association, for the frontage of the building.

We hope you enjoy our hospitality.