Date: June 12th 2014

Hawke’s Bay Opera House Plaza; a quality events venue

Hastings District Council is reminding the public that the Hawke’s Bay Opera House Plaza remains available for public functions.

The Theatre, Shakespeare Room, the Cushing Foyer and the Assembly Room in the Opera House were closed to the public in March 2014 following the receipt of engineering advice that the building was earthquake prone. Other parts of the building, including the office space were closed in May.

Deputy Mayor Cynthia Bowers says “The engineering advice that we have received indicates that the plaza is safe for use by the public. Two of the Opera House staff have been retained by Council on other duties and will also facilitate use of the plaza, consider long term bookings for the theatre and help rebuild patronage ahead of the reopening of the facility.”

Cynthia Bowers says “Council is pleased that this expertise has been retained and we will be able to work with key promoters in developing an exciting programme to commence as soon as the facility reopens.”

“It is important that the community is aware that the plaza is available for a wide range of functions. There is 600sq/m of floor space, the retractable roof allows the sun to shine in during summer and affords some respite from the cooler temperatures during winter and the space can be adapted for many different uses. So, whether you are planning a wedding, a gala dinner, cocktail function, exhibition or product launch, the Opera House Plaza is available to host an event to remember,” Cynthia Bowers says.

Cynthia Bowers says “Council is extremely disappointed that the Opera House will be closed for around 18 months to two years to allow earthquake strengthening work to be completed, but the food/catering providers that are located in the complex will continue to operate. Opera Kitchen continues to provide quality food and service to the public and Dish can provide catering support for events in the plaza.”

To enquire about booking the Hawke’s Bay Opera House Plaza contact glenp@hdc.govt.nz

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