The Penguin Club in Oamaru is employing security staff every Friday night.
Committee member Pat Trembeth said the club took the step because its licence was constantly under review and it wanted to keep it.
The club had been blamed for rubbish and vandalism in the historic precinct which was not caused by patrons.
It did not tolerate the presence of drunks, Mr Trembeth said.
Security started two weeks ago and it was working very effectively.
It would be a long-term initiative, he said.
The Penguin Club was "not another bar".
It was a music club for people to come and enjoy music.
He would hate to see it close because of "yobbos".
The club is holding a variety concert on Saturday night to raise money for the North Otago SPCA.
