A Historic Cinema Becomes New Venue for NZIFF

The New Zealand International Film Festival (NZIFF) expands its line-up of satellite venues to embrace the historic Hollywood Cinema in Avondale, now equipped for the annual event’s screenings.

Built in 1915, The Hollywood Cinema is one of the oldest cinemas in New Zealand. Recent renovations and ​upgrades ​to sound and picture presentation ​have ​now established ​it as the only cinema ​capable of regularly screening ​reel-to-reel 35mm film projection alongside ​the latest in digital projection.

“While the 2017 programme won’t feature any 35mm prints, we’re excited at the opportunity this new venue presents to expand the availability of the programme outside the CBD and its immediate environs,” says NZIFF director Bill Gosden.

“The Hollywood aims to be​ a haven for film and music lovers of Auckland, preserving the cinema-going experience and provide inspiration, education and a community-building space for ​locals. The theatre has also seen some of NZ’s finest musical talent play in its hallowed chamber including Tiny Ruins, Lawrence Arabia, Aldous Harding, Nadia Reid and Jean-Paul Sartre Experience. We’re thrilled to introduce NZIFF to The Hollywood experience.” says Matt Timpson?, The Hollywood owner

The venue is one of eight across Auckland that will screen NZIFF films from 20 July to 6 August. The Hollywood Cinema is joined by the ASB – ASB Waterfront Theatre as a new venue in this year’s NZIFF. Cinemas at Manukau and Westgate are also returning to NZIFF for 2017.

NZIFF is run by a charitable trust and encourages lively interactions between films, filmmakers and New Zealand audiences in 13 towns and cities around the country. The full NZIFF programme will be available from Tuesday 27 June for Auckland. NZIFF starts in Auckland on 20 July 2017.