Performing Arts Precinct

Te Whare Tapere

A Performing Arts Precinct offering facilities for the performing arts, and to act as a catalyst for recovery has been proposed. The precinct will embrace different sites and support co-location of organisations.

This Precinct aims to accommodate a range of facilities in the event that the Town Hall cannot be repaired. It will be in close proximity to the Convention Centre, Te Papa Ōtākaro/Avon River Precinct, hospitality providers and hotels.

The Precinct could include a performing arts centre comprised of two acoustically-sophisticated auditoria (with 1,500 and 500 seats respectively). It could provide a permanent home for the Court Theatre, the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra, and the Music Centre of Christchurch.

The location of the Performing Arts Precinct recognises the restoration of the Isaac Theatre Royal in its existing location.

The arts and creative industries are crucial to the recovery of Christchurch. They contribute to the community and cultural wellbeing and to local economy by supporting tourism and hospitality. They draw people into the city and make it an inspiring place to be.

Key facts

  • a precinct offering facilities for local and touring musicians and performance artists;
  • regeneration of vacant spaces through cultural activities and entertainment;
  • regeneration and revenue through collaboration and cooperation;
  • a permanent home for existing cultural institutions;
  • will be developed by CERA with collaboration from CCC, Ministry for Culture and Heritage, Private sector and Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu.