Popular agency event space Glasshouse under new ownership

AUCKLAND, Today: One of Auckland’s most sought after event spaces, the Glasshouse, has been acquired by hospitality group New Zealand Venue Co (NZVC) along with neighbouring pub Morningside Tavern.

The Glasshouse, famed for its 12m high ceilings and indoor oak trees, has been an agency and brand favourite since opening five years ago, hosting the likes of Rolling Stones Magazine’s Music Awards, Bombay Sapphire, TikTok, the Celebrity Treasure Island crew, Roku Gin’s Seasonal Supper and Stan Walker’s album launch.

Next door watering hole Morningside Tavern is a similarly popular site. Famed for its industrial fit out, craft beers and uncomplicated pub food, it’s frequented by suits and creatives from the surrounding suburbs seeking an informal meeting spot or after work brew. 

Undertow Media, who also coordinated the launch of the Morningside precinct back in 2018, worked with new owner NZVC on the purchase announcement and has managed PR for the business’ other sites including Saint Alice, Dr Rudi’s, St Johns, Concrete and Dirty Little Secret.

“Morningside Tavern and Glasshouse will continue to operate as usual, with all team members invited to maintain their positions and previous owner Rod Ballenden staying on to manage events.”

NZVC will now have 13 venues within its portfolio, including four in Auckland and nine in the capital. NZVC has been operating venues since 2018, when it acquired its first venue in Auckland, Dr Rudi’s.

The Morningside Tavern and Glasshouse will continue to operate as usual following completion of the sale, with all team members invited to maintain their positions and previous owner Rod Ballenden staying on to manage events at the Glasshouse.

NZVC ceo Paul Waterson, said: “The acquisition reflects the group’s strong track record of operating venues and its confidence in the country’s hospitality outlook.

“We always look to invest in venues which have a special connection with their customers. Morningside Tavern and Glasshouse have very strong relationships within their community, which reflects the way our existing venues operate. It will be a great fit.

“We’re excited to keep growing in Auckland and to work with Rod on the next chapter of these venues.”

About Undertow Media
Undertow Media is an independent PR, influencer & social media agency based in Auckland. Founded in 2013, the agency hangs its hat and reputation on top tier media connections and a history of clever campaigns that are 100 per cent outcome and results-driven for the best brands and businesses.

• undertowmedia.co.nz
• morningside.nz/glasshouse