The Civic Theatre was designed by Hastings Architect Peter Holland to replace the old Municipal Theatre in Kitchener Street which had to be demolished after being declared an earthquake risk.

The District Council, led by the Chairman, John Nairn, senior managers, Fred Spinley and Mike Jarvis are to be congratulated for their vision in the building of an exceptional community asset. Civic Theatre, Waipukurau

The theatre opened with a series of public events including a "Thanks a Million" concert on 12th November 1981.

George Mitchell, managed the theatre for the Central Hawke's Bay District Council for the first 17 years.

In 1999 Jim and Sandra Shand leased the Civic Theatre and negotiated a unique performance based contract to provide cinema services to the residents of Central Hawke's Bay.

To further enhance the complex, Mitchells Restaurant was opened in 2002. Private dining and a la carte meals for patrons is available as well as catering for special occasions or business groups. Fully licensed, a complete service package is offered to those seeking a venue for conferences, meetings and trade displays.

The Civic Theatre Mural

The Civic Theatre mural was painted in January 1991 by French artist Tanguy Flot.

The mural was commissioned by the CHB District Council with the support of the Central and Southern Hawkes Bay Community Arts Council and W.E.T.A.

The paint was supplied by Resene Paints.

Foyer Wall Hanging

The wall hanging in the foyer is the work of Auckland weaver, Yvonne Sloan. It was commissioned by the Norsewear Art Award Committee after the 1988 wool and fibre prize of $2000 was not awarded. The Waipukurau District Council contributed an additional $1000 towards the commissioning of the work which will remain on permanent display in the Civic Theatre Waipukurau.

Contact

Sandra Shand
Manager
Civic Theatre & Mitchells Restaurant
14 Northumberland Street
Waipukurau

Ph: 06-858-8125
Fax: 06-858-9868
Cell: 027-247-8469 (Please call the theatre first)

Website:www.civictheatre.net.nz