Auckland Venue The Kings Arms Tavern Sells For $7.4 Million

After two months on the market, beloved Auckland venue The Kings Arms Tavern has been sold for $7.4 million. The future of the tavern came into question in April this year when the France Street property was designated as a Special Housing Area. At that time, Kings Arms owner Maureen Gordon said there were no plans to sell.

Then in September, the 2112 square metre property was listed for sale. As reported by Stuff, Gordon said she put it on the market as rate increases had become unsustainable. "I do feel very sad about the sale though - it's been a lifestyle for my family - and for the young music goers of Auckland," she said.

Since becoming a music venue 30-odd years ago, the tavern has played host to an impressive raft of international acts including The White Stripes, The National, Band Of Horses, Kurt Vile, St Vincent, and Shellac. Coming up in the calendar over the next few months at the venue is Angel Olsen, Peaches, Fred & Toody and Neurosis.

In a blow to the Auckland live music scene, the sale means the Kings Arms is unlikely to continue as a venue as it is now open for redevelopment for residential or commercial purposes. However, Gordon says they will probably be keeping the tavern doors open for another 16 months.

Established in the 19th century, the Kings Arms Tavern is one of the oldest pubs in central Auckland, and according to Public Address is covered by a pre-1944 demolition overlay which makes the demolition of the building a discretionary activity.

News of the Kings Arms sale follows the announcement back in June that iconic Wellington venue Bodega will be closing its doors at the end of the year.