The Roxy Cinema

In the heart of the cinematic district of Miramar, which graces Wellington, lies the Roxy Cinema — a true Art Deco architectural gem. It is not just a place to watch films, but a full-fledged cultural hub where the aesthetics of the past meet modern technology.

The Roxy Cinema. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

This landmark, which New Zealand takes great pride in, is unique because masters from the famous Weta Workshop studio were involved in its creation. Designers who worked on "The Lord of the Rings" lent their hands to the interior decoration, turning the building into a work of art. At the same time, builders managed to preserve the historical facade of the old Capitol Theatre, harmoniously blending it into the venue's new look.

Inside, guests will find two exquisite theaters capable of seating 164 and 65 viewers respectively. The Roxy is considered one of the city's most stylish venues, offering visitors not only the latest film releases but also a luxurious dining area, making it a must-visit for any cinephile or lover of beautiful interiors.

For session times or to book a table at the restaurant, you can use the following contact details:

The main reason people come to the Roxy is, of course, to watch a movie in an exceptional setting. The repertoire always includes major global premieres as well as time-tested classics and arthouse films. The auditoriums are impressive with their finish, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the magic of the screen.

Be sure to check out "Coco at the Roxy" — a restaurant and cabaret area right inside the cinema. Here you can sample exquisite dishes made from fresh local produce or enjoy a cocktail in an interior inspired by the atmosphere of the early 20th century. The menu is famous for its desserts and snacks, which perfectly complement your evening.

Beyond films and gastronomy, the Roxy often serves as a venue for creative meetings, festivals, and cultural events. Simply walking through the building, you can see the results of the painstaking work of Weta Workshop artists: every decorative detail, from the light fixtures to the door handles, emphasizes the close connection of this place to the world of big cinema.

The Roxy Cinema is located at 5 Park Road in the suburb of Miramar, approximately 7–8 kilometers east of the city center. The area is famous as a hub for film production, so the trip itself sets the right mood.

The easiest way to get there from the city center is by public transport. Buses run regularly between the center and Miramar, taking about 20–30 minutes. If you prefer comfort, a taxi or ride-sharing app journey will take no more than 15 minutes.

For those just arriving in the country, the Roxy is an excellent first stop as it is located very close to Wellington Airport. The venue is also convenient for guests staying at the Rydges Wellington Airport hotel.

The history of this site began long before its modern glamour. Back in 1911, the suburban Capitol Theatre opened here, serving as a community gathering place for decades. Later, the building spent time as a shopping mall before gaining a second life as the renovated Roxy in 2011.

The grand opening of the current cinema took place on April 1, 2011, and was a world-class event. The red carpet featured the cast and crew of The Hobbit, cementing the venue's status as a vital link in the region's film industry.

Interestingly, the name was not chosen by chance. In the mid-20th century, there was already a popular cinema with the same name in the city, and reviving the Roxy brand was a tribute to the golden age of cinema. During the reconstruction, the facade of the historic Capitol building was carefully preserved and integrated into the new project, merging past and present.

To fully enjoy the atmosphere of this place, we recommend planning a visit of 3 to 4 hours. This is enough time to watch a movie and enjoy a leisurely dinner at the local restaurant.

If your goal is only to catch a movie, then about 2.5 hours should suffice. However, many tourists arrive early to admire the interior details and take Art Deco style photos, so a little extra time is definitely worth it.

Please note the cinema's operating schedule when planning your trip. The venue is closed at the beginning of the week.

From Wednesday to Sunday, the Roxy Cinema opens its doors at 9:00 AM and remains open until 9:00 PM. This allows you to choose a convenient time for either a morning coffee in the cozy foyer or an evening movie session with dinner.

A visit to Miramar can easily be turned into a full day's adventure, as many interesting locations related to nature and cinema are concentrated around the theater.

A stroll through the area allows you to see famous hills and coastlines, as well as visit sites that have become iconic for fantasy fans. Below are the nearest attractions: