Hokitika Regent Theatre
Built in 1935 by local builder E.H. Shirley, this architectural entertainment gem was designed by renowned architect Wilford Melville Lawry in the Art Deco style, reflecting the international trends of the time.
Entertainment in Art Deco glory.
The Regent Theatre wasn’t the only theatre space in town upon opening. Still, it quickly established itself as the primary source of entertainment in Hokitika, showcasing movies and live performances. Its state-of-the-art equipment for the era, including 35mm projection and, later, automatic projectors with wide screens, positioned it as one of the best-equipped cinemas in New Zealand. In its prime, between 1938 and 1960, the theatre buzzed with activity, screening movies six nights a week and drawing audiences from surrounding districts, including Greymouth.
However, the arrival of television in the 1960s posed a significant challenge. Facing declining attendance, the community rallied together to save their beloved theatre. Through a significant public fundraising effort, Westland Community Centre Incorporated purchased the Regent in 1977, ensuring its continued operation. Today, the theatre remains vital to Hokitika’s cultural fabric, hosting various events beyond movies. From ANZAC Day services and Christmas carols to live music and theatrical productions, the Regent serves as a central hub for community gatherings.
Beyond its functionality, the Regent Theatre holds significant historical and architectural value. As one of the few remaining Art Deco cinemas in New Zealand, its design boasts characteristic geometric patterns, zigzags, chevrons, and vertical and horizontal fins. This unique aesthetic, carefully restored to its original 1935 colours, reflects the influence of American architecture prevalent during the era.
The Regent Theatre’s story involves community dedication, architectural preservation, and adaptation. As a Category 2 historic place, it represents a vital link to Hokitika’s past and continues to serve as a vibrant hub for the community’s present and future.
Address
District Westland
Town Hokitika