Catch the vibe, it's party time at the Reef Bar
Thursday, 20 April 2006

WOW, come the weekend the ‘in crowd’ should be falling over themselves to party at the Reef Bar, Mission Bay.

That’s because Catch 22 is the star attraction, having been snatched from the east to take up the regular Friday/Saturday night spot at this popular waterfront venue.

Ever since Aaron Calman (aka The Lizard) took over as manager early this year, the Reef Bar has been positively humming.

His goal was to make it the top party bar and live music venue in Auckland and so far he’s doing a good job.

Firstly, Aaron wasted no time having a stage and light show erected on the deck to cater for a hip crowd who enjoy good music and a party mood. He then recruited the hugely popular Catch 22, a band well known in Auckland’s eastern suburbs.

“Now that they’re playing from 9.30pm until around 2am, Friday and Saturday nights with us, there’s every reason to head down and enjoy,’ says Aaron. “I’ve worked with Catch 22 on and off for three years so I’m stoked they’ve made a commitment to the Reef Bar.”

The band consists of Murray Howell, vocals and guitar, Jarrad Lee, guitar and vocals, Paul Mathews on bass and backing vocals plus Spencer Bryant on drums. They have a repertoire of more than 300 songs ranging from rock ‘n’ roll to disco, retro, modern pop and rock and they’re quick to sense an audience’s mood.

As well as making live music a priority Aaron has made every night at the Reef Club special. Quiz nights on Tuesdays at 7pm now feature a visual format with movie and music video clips. Enjoy the fun, jokes and the chance to win bar tabs.

For those who prefer a more mellow mood then Wednesday’s $10 cocktail night with funky house music is just the thing, while the inimitable Phil Madsen and band play Thursdays.

The band’s wide appeal saw them open for Cher at her 2005 Auckland concert and they’re a favourite at the annual Coca Cola in the Park event.
Sports fans also get their go on Fridays and Saturdays when they can watch the Super 14 on the big screen and win prizes should ‘their player’ score a try.

With the Reef Bar setting up its VIP Reef 10 Club and starting to put together a range of discount offers, readers are invited to join the email info list – partyatreef@ihug.co.nz – it’s an easy way to stay in touch with events and special promotions.

And while the nightlife is buzzing, everyone should be aware that lunch at The Reef Bar has long been recognised as tops.

Enjoying a great location – elevated and sunny, featuring reserve and sea views – the Reef Bar offers a fantastic lunch menu. The Reef Salad, for instance, is a must for seafood lovers. More to do with lashings of seafood in a delicious dressing and virtually nothing to do with lettuce, it ranks just ahead of the salmon stack and the chicken, avocado and brie salad as meals which truly satisfy.

All are great value – they are generous, extremely tasty and the price is right. Just ask my friend.

She dines there almost every other week and thanks to her recommendation, scores of others have discovered the virtues of this prime waterfront venue and its menu. And hey, if you’re a night owl who likes to boogie, you’ll definitely be staying on at the Reef Bar to catch the band.