The gold and red interior of Bats Theatre.

Bats Theatre is an inner-city space for showcasing New Zealand’s creative talent. 

The three-level, historic building is on Kent Terrace, in Mount Victoria — just at the end of the city’s main strip, Courtenay Place. It is a venue that has helped grow the careers of some of the country’s household names in entertainment. It seeks to decolonise spaces and remove barriers to success.

Bats Theatre Limited operates the theatre, a company wholly owned by the Bats Theatre Charitable Trust. The Wellington Film Properties Trust owns the building itself. Renovations and strengthening work took place in 2013 and 2014.

The ground floor is fully wheelchair accessible, with direct access to the foyer, bar area, and main stage.

The Dome, a performance space with stunning heritage details, is on the first floor, and The Studio, an intimate and airy space, is on the second.

The various venues are available for hire for creative workshops, conferences, and other events. They come fully equipped with high-quality sound and lighting gear, and furniture on request.

Location details

Jurisdiction Wellington City Council
Permits required Private, contact Screen Wellington
Location descriptors Art Deco, downtown, historic, public buildings, theatres, halls, event spaces, town, halls, entertainment venues, community centres.