Parked Up | Licensed Urban Oasis — Restaurant in Waitematā

If I could give zero stars, I would. I was planning my 24th birthday at this run down place and dealing with Nick, the manager, was one of the most frustrating and disrespectful experiences I’ve ever had with a venue. From the very beginning, every time my partner and I asked questions to make sure the night went smoothly, he acted annoyed, like we were inconveniencing him. It honestly felt like he wanted my birthday to be run his way instead of listening to what we wanted. When I called to lock in details, his attitude screamed that he doesn’t care anymore, like he’s been in the industry too long and can’t even be bothered with basic professionalism. I initially gave him my budget, which was $300 for 30 people (yes, low for catering, I fully accept that). But here’s the issue: when we met in person, he pretended it was fine, nodded along, and acted like we had an understanding. A million times he would say "let me draw something up, let me see what I can do and ill email you back", then absolute silence from his end. Then later on the phone, he turned around, acted like it was ridiculous, and made me feel small for even bringing it up. Its really giving two-faced behaviour. I was flexible and willing to increase my budget to work with him but instead, he decided to lecture me about how if my guests got drunk, he’d just kick them out. Excuse me? This was a family event. Nothing in our discussions even suggested that this was going to be that type of party (subtle racism). It was uncalled for, condescending, and completely out of line. Then, the absolute audacity: he tried to flip it on us and say we were being “sketchy” and that he needed more reassurance. Let’s be clear.... I was the one chasing HIM with calls and emails, not the other way around. For him to call us sketchy is beyond insulting. And to top it off — the subtle racism. He made an unnecessary, offhand remark about not being able to buy “vindaloo at the mall for $10.” For context, I’m Māori and my partner is Indian. The dismissive way he said it was offensive, and if he wouldn’t have the guts to say something like that directly to our faces, then he shouldn’t be saying it at all. It was disrespectful, tone-deaf, and revealed a lot about the way he treats people. Nick’s attitude ruined what should have been an exciting lead-up to my birthday. Instead of feeling supported and celebrated, I was left stressed, insulted, and completely put off the venue. If you value respect, professionalism, and basic decency, do yourself a favour and look elsewhere. A manager should make you feel comfortable, not belittled, dismissed, or judged. Parked Up has completely lost my trust, and I wouldn’t recommend this place to anyone. Absolutely horrible. Reading his replies to any negative review its clear to see it attitude so I would love to see what he has...

Exceedingly average experience this week (Wed) after having looked forward to attending this function post lockdown. Wanted a Campari at outdoor bar and was advised available at indoor bar. Go there and rather rudely told could not serve me as bar for another function (ok, Covid rules...totally get it but why so curt?) Go back to outside bar and settle for a G&T...pay money. Tonic flat! Pre lockdown stock from 3 months earlier, perhaps? Waste of good Haymans gin. Woodfired pizzas on offer at function supposedly. Yummy! stomach juices get going with the delicious smells of pizza being eaten around me. Order a margherita from waitress . 30 odd mins goes by so go check in on progress. Ooops.... "sorry I gave your pizza to someone else. Bit of a wait, now......" Left immediately after, utterly ravenous. Went to a nearby bar and had a delicious meal with great service.Should have just skipped this function and gone directly there. Happy to make allowances for hospo, post lockdown wobbles etc but this place was pretty Fawlty Towers if completely honest. Needs to up game if it wants to...

A perfect case for why a zero rating option is needed. There is was plenty left to be desired from this venue. A few significant lowlights included:

The owner was a rude drunk (very drunk) who was very inappropriate around all females in attendance and generally just obnoxious. He mentioned the impact of Covid on his business whist seeming to do everything possible to ruin the chance of repeat business from the nights patrons Food was lacking in quantity and quality. When I tried to order more I got told that this was not possible..yet they continued to serve plenty of alcohol - breach of liquor license? Only 2 toilets for 100+ people in attendance - 1 of which was blocked for most of the night Double booked which seems to be a common theme. This led to logistical chaos just before and during the event.

Plenty of better places in close vicinity - times are tough for business owners and most are going out on a limb to provide exceptional service and great deals.

Unfortunately this place isn’t one of those - suggest parting with your...