The Waikato's GLBT nightclub the Next Door Bar, and the adjoining 10 High sex-on-site venue both closed their doors suddenly last Thursday, but owner Clive Brocker assures GayNZ.com the closure is only temporary. Council inspectors have asked for emergency lighting to be fitted on a stairwell to improve fire safety in Hamilton's popular bar, which recently celebrated it's 15th anniversary. Until the extra safety measures are complete, the business must remain closed. Brocker is certain the measures won't take long to complete, but at this stage couldn't predict when the bar will be back in business. A ‘reopening' party will be arranged. Some of the Next Door Bar's regulars made the trip up to Auckland to party at Family this weekend. Drag performer Josh Hainge, 23, says news of the bar's closure spread like wildfire. “I was pretty shocked. I heard the place needed to be completely rebuilt. It's good to hear just a few things need fixing." Josh says he's glad to be going out in Auckland this Labour Weekend, and now jokes that he and his drag mates will find a Hamilton straight bar to take over until their Next Door Bar reopens. Ref: GayNZ.com (m)
Credit: GayNZ.com News Staff
First published: Sunday, 22nd October 2006 - 12:00pm