Rufus Dempsey

Ōpōtiki’s Deluxe Theatre was temporarily closed last week but has reopened with an upgrade – larger, comfier and more ergonomical seating.

Improvements to the main screening room also include new carpet and expanded wheelchair access.

The upgrades to the 42-seat cinema are part of the Ōpōtiki Community Theatre Trust’s commitment to its objectives to provide the Ōpōtiki district with a high standard facility that enhances the lifestyles of the community.

The trust was established over 40 years ago taking over the ownership of the theatre for the benefit of the Ōpōtiki community.

The theatre building is thought to be the oldest surviving former Kerridge theatre in the country, and is one of the few remaining independent theatres nationwide.

Its survival is testament to the hard work of the trust and volunteers involved.

As the building reaches its centenary in December, the trust’s mission is to continually improve, upgrade and adapt to optimise customer experience.

Recent upgrades have included the installation of new heat pumps in the foyer area and green room, replacement air-conditioning unit for the cinema, electrical upgrades in the big theatre including commercial standard lighting and audio equipment.

Another new feature is the installation of specialized live-streaming lighting and audio equipment tailored for live stream broadcasting.

The theatre has a proud history of providing a venue for entertainment, cultural and educational events since it was established in 1926. It has hosted all manner of community groups over the years and provided volunteers with the opportunity to learn new skills, work with like-minded community-oriented people and, in turn train, new generations of volunteers.

Some notable shows in 2025 included the Matariki Glow Show, the Ōpōtiki Performing Arts Academy dance showcase and the Waiotahe Valley School production. The cinema has also held sell out short film festivals, Punjabi and Hindu movies with English subtitles as well as numerous te reo movies.

Trust member Ellie Collier is excited about all the upgrades and the challenge involved in maximising the functionality of the venue.

“With the school holidays coming up we have some new kids and family movies coming up such as the Super Mario Galaxy Movie, The Magic Faraway Tree and Hoppers, we are also planning a premiere of the New Zealand movie Sgt Haane on April 27.

“We owe a lot to our sponsors and volunteers and all the community members that lend their time and skills to keep things running smoothly. From installing new kitchen shelving, security cameras and even fixing the popcorn machine.

“A lot of the upgrades simply wouldn’t be possible without the support of funding organisations such as the Lottery Community Fund, Aotearoa Gaming and the Lion Foundation, as well as local funders Trust Horizon, Quota, Eastpack and the Motu Challenge,” she said.