365 Days | #5 | The Pumphouse Theatre & Gallery

Visit the Shore’s Heritage Performing Arts Venue, right on the edge of the beautiful Lake Pupuke. See the latest exhibition in the art gallery, go to a live show in the theatre, or simply enjoy a coffee and a bite to eat in this historic venue.Watch the windsurfers and rowers, feed the ducks and swans, or take a walk around the lake edge. There’s plenty to see and do here, and it’s only a short walk from the Takapuna shopping precinct.

Originally built in 1905 to provide water for the North Shore (bricks and timber supplied by local businesses), the Pumphouse was in action until 1944, when the odd eel started to find its way into residents’ bathtubs. Neglected and almost derelict, the building was just saved from demolition by the casting vote of  Mayor Fred Thomas in the 1960s.  In 1971, the North Shore Theatre and Arts Trust was formed, funds were raised and the Theatre was opened in 1977. The gallery is a later addition.

The intimate theatre seats 192 people and has been used to host some exciting local productions such as Ship Songs, Pear Shaped and 1953. It’s a popular spot for music recitals, and children’s plays and musicals are also staged at The Pumphouse – Badjelly The Witch, The Greedy Cat and The Man Whose Mother Was A Pirate are some recent productions.

The amphitheatre is an additional space for live shows and is well used in the summer months with productions such as “Shakespeare in the Park” .

Go to the Pumphouse website to see what’s on and what’s coming up. If you’re keen to help, sign up to become a Pumphouse Theatre supporter.