Wellington’s boutique cinemas

The Embassy Theatre is New Zealand’s grandest picture palace. Built in 1926, the theatre was fully refurbished in 2003 for the world premiere of ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King’. Since then, the 820-seat theatre has hosted many special events. This includes an array of Australasian premieres and many fine film festivals.

You’ll feel spoilt with a giant CinemaScope screen, state-of-the-art sound system, and luxury seating. The chic bar downstairs is home to two further boutique cinemas. Many original Art Deco features remain including a grand marble staircase and intricate plastered ceilings.

There’s nothing like a night with a great movie on the couch. Light House has you covered with its two-seater couches. The theatre seating even comes with plush cushions. Light House shows a diverse range of recent arthouse movies, plus a few of the best blockbusters.

This is a real boutique experience with excellent coffee, local craft beer, and wine all available to take into the cinema with you. Don’t miss Treat Yourself Tuesdays with cheap tickets and its other great offers for students and seniors.

You’re in film-nerd heaven at The Roxy Cinema. Founded by a group of local film industry movie lovers, this movie theatre has become a hub for film buffs. Original classic movie posters decorate the walls. Gollum and Gandalf sculptures greet you in the foyer. And a real Oscar statuette is on display.

The original façade from the 1928 Capitol Theatre is still there but behind is a state-of-the-art cinema. A team of Wētā Workshop artists and set-builders created a space that is part Art Deco, part sci-fi. There are also excellent food and drink options at CoCo in the foyer.

Seeing a film at the Penthouse in Brooklyn is a little like stepping back in time. With its distinctive pastel blue and yellow Art Deco façade, the 1939 theatre is a Brooklyn landmark.

The schedule at Penthouse shows blockbusters and independent films across its four screens. You can also catch a wonderful selection of opera, and theatre screened live from around the world. For a dinner and movie date, the café bar has a great burger menu. If you prefer, head out to one of the other eateries in the village centre.

The Empire Cinema offers Island Bay its own piece of art nouveau history. After many non-cinematic uses, the 1925 movie theatre was returned to its former glory in 2005. Each boutique cinema holds between 50 and 65 people. It shows mainstream blockbusters, family movies, and art-house titles. It’s friendly and cosy, with plenty of room alongside the built-in couch seating for your coffee, wine, or snack.

The in-house café makes excellent coffee. There’s also a good range of daily-made cabinet food, a brunch menu, and classic movie treats like gelato and popcorn.