10/05/2026
Ruby Bay Store - the venue - BIG NEWS!
Ever since the Store opened as a music venue four years ago, we’ve wanted to lease the cafe side of the business to make it viable. Now we’re delighted to announce that Raf and Ale, of Nelson’s late-lamented Babagatto Italian restaurant, have taken over the lease of the Ruby Bay Store as a whole.
With their experience and passion for authentic Italian flavours, we think Ruby Bay, Māpua and beyond are in for something special — and delicious.
The Store will close during August while Raf and Ale redecorate and carry out upgrades, with plans to open in September.
The last official live music events will take place in July. However, Raf and Ale hope to continue nurturing the artistic identity of the Ruby Bay Store with special events and live music gigs, as part of the spirit and the legacy of the Store itself. Watch this space for future announcements!
We would like to say a huge thank you, particularly to co-founder and leading light Chrissie Small, and to all the incredible musicians, performers, audiences, friends and supporters who have helped build and make the Ruby Bay Store such a special place. Your support, creativity, energy and encouragement have meant so much and helped create a unique space.
All the very best,
Carol Cromie and Anna Macfarlane
www.rubybaystore.co.nz
Ruby Bay Store Theatre Supporters Ruby Baystore
Ruby Bay Store:Theatre and Tearooms Read More Tiered Seating Tiered seating provides an intimate space for small performances such as comedy, music, independent film, and local plays and productions. UPCOMING EVENTS Live Events Offering live music and speaker events, Ruby Bay Store's event space ble...
