Our Story

Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s movie-making capital, Miramar, Wellington, this gorgeous art deco cinema theatre, multi-arts venue and restaurant, is one of the city’s leading attractions.

The Roxy Cinema opened its doors April 1st 2011, to a star studded Opening Party with the cast and crew of The Hobbit. A testament to the creative collaboration between some of Wellington's best architects, builders, film makers, Weta Workshop artisans and designers, and a host of talent from within the hospitality industry, this beautiful building, along with our talented team, has won accolades for its authentic art deco interior design, architectural features, and also as an outstanding cinema exhibition venue.

History

Reborn as The Roxy in 2011, this iconic Miramar building started life as The Capitol Theatre - a one-screen picture house, purpose built in 1928 to screen silent films. In 1932 the cinema was converted to screen 'talkies', and continued to show films until 1964, when it closed its doors. It then became local shopping centre 'Capitol Court' until falling into disrepair and lying vacant for a number of years. As Miramar's vibrant film industry began to take shape, the Camperdown Studios group purchased it with a view to restoring and reviving it as a community cinema. Unfortunately for locals, a few movies (the Lord of the Rings trilogy) got in the way of this project and though the first architectural drawings were completed in 2006, it wasn't until April 1st 2011 that The Roxy opened its doors, to the delight of the owners, locals, and visitors alike!

This versatile multi-arts venue now boasts state of the art sound design and projection technology, two luxurious theatres (164 seats / 55 seats), generous Italian leather seats and the ability to enjoy wine and snacks while you watch, making this a very special film experience. Top it off with a mouthwatering meal from our thematic dine menu and one of our award winning cocktails (we have a few!) and you’ve got yourself a grand night out at deceptively reasonable rates! We may look luxe, but we’re also firm believers in fun, so our service is warm and friendly, with deceptively reasonable rates. We’re also well known for our events, so keep up with our Instagram and Facebook pages (@roxycinemanz / @cocoattheroxy) to see what we’re up to next!

The Roxy Cinema is co-owned by some of Wellington’s most dynamic and creative residents: Oscar-winning editor Jamie Selkirk and wife Ann, Weta Workshop founder Tania Rodger, local foodie Valentina Dias and husband Daminda, and the latest member to the team, the one and only Ray Letoa. All are passionate about film, food, and Wellington!

The Roxy Cinema is open all year round, seven days a week from 9am to late (only shutting for Christmas Day) and doesn’t surcharge our services on public holidays.