Gathering of Shadows

Welcome to the hottest Halloween party in New Zealand. The self-acclaimed Counte d’Halloween is renown for both being an enigmatic character whose real-life persona can only be guessed at, but also for throwing the best Halloween parties in Oceana. The invite list is always secret - but you have one.

My dear creature of the night,

It is with both delight and a dash of delicious dread that I extend to you a most exclusive invitation to an affair like no other: The Gathering of Shadows. On the bewitching evening of October 31st, as the veil between the worlds grows thin, I invite you to step between the realm of life and death with me.

You are cordially summoned to the Ferndale House, to arrive at the gates at 9 p.m. sharp. Your presence is requested to adorn our gathering with the grace and grandeur that only you can bring. Come dressed in a costume that whispers of the supernatural and the darkness within you and prepare to be enraptured by an evening of dreadful delights and cultured conversations.

The night promises not only to be a feast for the senses but a celebration of the mysterious and the macabre, with surprises lurking in every shadow. No RSVP is required as your presence is fated. I will see you there.

With the warmest regards and a touch of the uncanny,

Yours eternally,

The Count d’Halloween

Please read the below important information before purchasing:

What is this event? This is an exclusive, 18+ Halloween-themed parlour LARP hosted by the enigmatic "Count d’Halloween". It’s an immersive experience where guests, in costume, will role-play characters in a night filled with mystery, intrigue, and supernatural delights.

What is a parlour LARP? A parlour LARP (Live Action Role-Playing) focuses on character-driven stories, social interaction, and light intrigue in an intimate setting. Physical touch must be consented to by both players and the use of larp 'weapons' will be limited.

Do I need prior LARP experience to attend? No prior experience is necessary! This event is designed to be welcoming to newcomers and veterans alike. Character sheets and instructions will be provided in advance, so you can familiarise yourself with the story and role before the event. If you've never role-played before try to imagine what your character would do or think regarding this opportunity and pick a costume that matches what they think the evening is about. This will help you get in the mindset for the role you're about to play!

What should I wear? Guests are encouraged to come dressed in costumes that reflect the elegant yet supernatural, gothic, or mysterious theme and the character you are playing. Any special costume or prop requirements will be clearly stated on your character sheet. Please ensure your costume is appropriate for a social setting.

Will food and drinks be provided? Yes, your ticket includes a selection of light refreshments. This includes small plates, curated snacks, and themed beverages to enhance your experience throughout the evening.

Can I buy alcohol at the event? No but a set amount of themed alcoholic beverages will be available for consuption at the venue.

Will non-alcoholic beverages be available? Yes! We want everyone to have a good time. There will be themed drinks for those of us who don't want alcohol as well.

What if I have a special dietary accomodation? Nut free, gluten free, and vegitarian options are part of the menue. If you have other needs, please let us know when you sign up for your ticket or email [email protected] with the Subject: SDA - Gathering of Shadows.

What if I have a health condition? If you have a health condition that you think may impact your game play - be it a heart condition, creaky knees, diabetes, or a neurodiversity that you need accomodated, please let us know when you purchase your ticket. You can also email [email protected] with the Subject: Accomodations - Gathering of Shadows.

When does the event start? The event will begin at 9 p.m. on October 31st. We encourage you to arrive promptly as parking is limited on-site and doors close precisely at 9:20 pm and will not re-open until after game-play is finished.

How do I receive my character information? Character sheets will be sent to you prior to the event via email. Please make sure the email address you use for your sign up is the one you want your character sheet sent to. If multiple people are signing up with one email, please make sure you do not read eachother's character sheets. Also, please review your character’s background and motivations before the night to enhance your role-playing experience.

What if I buy a late ticket? Late ticket holders will still receive character information and be fully integrated into the event. However, tickets are limited, so it’s best to secure your spot early!

Ticket Transfers: Ticket transfers are allowed. If you need to transfer your ticket to another individual, please ensure that they are at least 18 years of age. If transferring a ticket within 48 hours of the event, we kindly ask that you email [email protected] with the details of the transfer so that we can update our guest list accordingly.

Refund Policy: Refunds are permitted up to 2 weeks before the event. Refunds are subject to a 50% processing fee. To request a refund, please contact the host via email, and include your order details. Please note that refunds will not be issued within 48 hours of the event.

Will there be combat? This is a parlour LARP, so the focus will be on social interaction, intrigue, and mystery but there is the chance of small or minor combat during the event.

Can I bring a friend or plus one? Yes, but all attendees must have their own ticket to enter the event. Please note that tickets are limited, and once they’re sold out, no additional spaces will be available.

Can I bring an infant? Sorry, but no. This event is strictly 18+.

Is there an age restriction? Yes, this event is strictly 18+ due to the themed drinks being served.

Will there be surprises during the event? Absolutely! Expect the unexpected. Surprises are woven into the evening, adding to the intrigue and mystery of the night. Stay sharp and trust no one...

Please note, themes of the supernatural including magic and the spooky, creepy, and possibly even downright horrific may be present at this event. Please be sure you are prepared to handle that.

Are cell phones or photography allowed? To preserve the immersive nature of the event, we ask that participants silence and put away their cellular devices during the game. However, if you wish to take photos, please do so before doors close at 9:20 p.m. If you are a photographer or the media wanting to access the event, please email an inquiry to [email protected].

What accessibility accommodations are available? We are committed to making the event as accessible as possible. The Ferndale House is largely wheelchair accessible through retrofitting, and seating will be available throughout the night. If you have specific accessibility needs (such as dietary restrictions or other accommodations), please contact us in advance at with the appropriate subject line at the email noted above, and we will do our best to ensure your experience is enjoyable.

Are there discounted tickets for those willing to crew? Yes, we offer discounted tickets for those interested in crewing. As a crew member, you will need to arrive by 8:15 p.m. to assist with setup and stay until midnight to help with cleanup. Crew members will also play NPC (Non-Player Character) roles during the event, helping to bring the story to life. If you are interested, please contact us for more details on how to join the crew and secure your discounted ticket. If you are interested in being game staff, please email your larp CV [email protected] with the Subject: Staffing for Gathering of Shadows.

Have questions or concerns not answered here? Please email [email protected] with the Subject: Question/Concern and we will respond within 48 hours.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Ferndale House, 830 New North Road, Auckland, New Zealand