Custom Shipping Container Bar for Wedding Venue in New Zealand

Outdoor weddings are becoming increasingly popular in New Zealand, and venue operators are starting to look for more flexible and low-maintenance infrastructure to support those events. One of our recent clients came to us with a clear request: they needed two custom-built container bars that would look good, last long, and work well with their rotating team of mobile bartenders.

This wasn’t a fancy luxury installation — the client knew exactly what they needed and preferred something simple, practical, and solid. That’s where we came in.
 

Project Background of The Shipping Container Bar in New Zealand

The customer owns a private wedding venue in New Zealand, where each event often brings in a new catering or bar team. Rather than building a permanent bar setup, they needed something semi-permanent — easy to maintain, able to stand up to outdoor conditions, and adaptable for different uses.

Their idea was to use shipping containers as base structures for two separate bar units. We’ve worked with similar cases before, so we understood right away what would work best here.

“We just want a clean structure with a working surface inside. Most bartenders bring their own tools anyway — we just need to give them a space that’s ready to use.”

That simple brief guided our entire design.

 

How It’s Used On-Site

The two bar containers were installed side by side in the outdoor reception area. They act as the main beverage service hub for weddings, cocktail hours, and private events. The open layout makes it easy for the venue owner to rent them out to outside bartending teams — all they need to do is roll in their gear and start pouring.
Since the containers are weatherproof, they stay in place year-round, and only minor cleaning is needed between events. The foldable glass windows can be closed when not in use, keeping everything safe and secure.

A Growing Trend in the Industry

This New Zealand project isn’t unique — we’ve seen an increasing number of requests for shipping container bars, especially in countries where outdoor events are in demand but building codes or budgets limit traditional construction.

Our Process 

Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Shipping Container Bar

 

01 Initial Consultation     We start by listening. Tell us your ideas, needs, and budget — we’ll help you figure out the right container size, bar equipment, layout, finishes, and any special add-ons you have in mind. Need inspiration? You’re welcome to explore our previous projects for ideas.		02 Tailored Quotation     Once we understand what you’re looking for, we’ll prepare a detailed quote based on your goals. It will include material specs, service scope, customization details, and a transparent cost breakdown — no hidden fees.		03 Design & Planning     Here’s where your concept takes shape. We’ll draw up a complete set of plans including container size, 3D color renderings, layout diagrams, plumbing and electrical systems, and bar workflow. All designs follow local health, fire, and building codes to ensure full compliance.
04 Manufacturing & Assembly     Your bar is built in our own production facility based on the approved drawings. This ensures quality control and prevents weather-related delays. The standard build time is around 30 working days, but this can vary depending on the level of customization.		05 Final Checks       Before shipping, we run full inspections. All systems — electrical, plumbing, and bar-related fixtures — are tested. We document the process with photos and videos, so you can check everything remotely before final approval.		06 Delivery or Pick-Up     We can deliver your completed container bar directly to your location, or you’re welcome to arrange pick-up at our factory. Either way, we’ll make sure your unit arrives safely and on time.

 

Interested in a Shipping Container Bar?

If you’re running an event venue, outdoor bar, or seasonal catering business and need a setup that works, talk to us. Like this New Zealand client, you might find that a custom container bar is exactly what you’ve been looking for.Interested in a Shipping Container Bar?

We ship globally and handle custom projects of all sizes. Get in touch and let’s build something practical, beautiful, and built to last.