Wellington's Monkey Bar is to become the city's second gay and lesbian venue, as the established nightclub changes focus and turns a gentle shade of pink. In contrast to Pound, Monkey Bar plans to be less of a nightclub, and more of a relaxed lounge bar. It will have no stage and therefore less focus on shows, and although there will be DJs on weekends, the lounge area will remain quiet and more subdued. "I thought it was the right time for gay and lesbian Wellingtonians to have the option of another venue to go to," says entrepreneur Grant Bennett. "For us, the timing was right." Monkey Bar currently hosts Queers Gone Kiwi on Wednesday nights, and the owners are considering a ladies night for lesbians. "We are interested in talking to people about what they want out of their gay venue," Bennett told GayNZ.com. "These are the sort of things we want to promote and develop in the community." Monkey Bar is in the basement level of 25 Taranaki St, Wellington, and is open Wednesday - Saturday nights.
Credit: GayNZ.com News Staff
First published: Friday, 3rd February 2006 - 12:00pm