New theatre for Auckland Waitemata waterfront

Construction of Aucklands’s new state-of-the-art theatre complex is about to start.

The theatre will be a further example of private public partnership such as the Michael Parekowhai lighthouse sculpture being funded by Barfoot & Thompson and Auckland Council.

These projects are helping develop the Waitemata harbour wharf area, turning it into an a social and cultural destination for Aucklanders as well as tourists.

The 650-seat theatre named the ASB Waterfront Theatre will be next door to the ASB Bank head office in Wynyard Quarter

“ASB has a strong history of supporting the arts and we’re proud to be naming-rights sponsor of the new ASB Waterfront Theatre,” says ASB Chief Executive Barbara Chapman.

“This purpose-built facility will connect with and share auditorium space with ASB’s North Wharf headquarters, providing a fantastic new home for the Auckland Theatre Company. At the same time, Auckland’s newest and most advanced theatre facility will cement Wynyard Quarter’s development into a world-class entertainment hub.”

A mid-size venue for performing arts companies was identified by Auckland Council as the single highest priority need for the performing arts in Auckland. Auckland mayor Len Brown says, “The ASB Waterfront Theatre will strengthen Auckland’s creative economy, further promote Auckland’s waterfront as a visitor destination, showcase our thriving performing arts scene and provide a space for us to welcome the very best international artists to the city.

“Auckland Council’s support kick-started the fundraising campaign for the project three years ago. We are so pleased that Auckland Theatre Company was able to raise the extra funds required to provide this fantastic venue to the Auckland community and our visitors. The ASB Waterfront Theatre is an example of how the public, private and philanthropic sectors can work together to achieve great things for Auckland.”

Other major contributors to the project include ASB Community Trust, AUT University, Creative NZ, NZ Lottery Grants Board, The Lion Foundation and Infinity Foundation. Auckland Theatre Company will be the anchor tenant of the theatre. Waterfront Theatre Ltd, a limited liability company, will develop, own and maintain the building.

The contractor, Hawkins Construction, says the theatre will take around 20 months to complete, meaning the doors will be open to the public by mid-2016. Auckland Theatre Company Artistic Director, Colin McColl said, “We are absolutely delighted that this project is now a reality rather than a distant dream. We thank each and every one of our generous supporters and look forward to welcoming you all to the ASB Waterfront Theatre in 2016.”