The City Rail Link is making it easier to get to Auckland music venues without driving. With new stations at Te Waihorotiu and Karanga-a-Hape, several independent venues are now just a few minutes' walk from the train. From Ding Dong Lounge and Dead Witch to Whammy Bar, Neck of the Woods and The Button Factory, we look at Auckland music venues within about 10 minutes of a station, plus other venues connected by Auckland's wider bus and rail network.

The Auckland City Rail Link opens this Sunday, making Auckland city centre easier to reach and get around. For Ding Dong Lounge, Te Waihorotiu Station is just a 3-minute walk from our front door at 26 Wyndham Street. After almost 10 years of roadworks, we're looking forward to seeing more people back in the city and discovering Auckland's rock, live music and nightlife scene.

Corey Friedlander has been at the forefront of New Zealand metal since joining 8 Foot Sativa at 17, shaping live shows and international tours before expanding his drumming legacy across City of Souls, In Dread Response, and Shepherds Reign. Gideon Voon’s guitar work in Shepherds Reign has propelled the band onto global stages, winning multiple Pacific Music Awards and playing shows alongside The Hu and Disturbed.