Waikato Regional Property Trust will receive $1.3 million from Hamilton City Council to install retractable seating in the Waikato Regional Theatre, increasing its community use and revenue options.

Council confirmed the additional funding yesterday (29 May 2025) after the theatre owners, Waikato Regional Property Trust, explained they had exhausted all other funding options.

Following discussions with Live Nation New Zealand this year, the world-leader for entertainment bookings and operator of the Theatre, new retractable seating was added to the $80 million facility to have the option of a large flat floor space.

Mayor Paula Southgate said ratepayers are expecting a theatre that is top quality and will last for generations.

“Live Nation is a world-class events promoter and we are so lucky to have secured them to run the Theatre. It speaks volumes about the confidence they have in Hamilton as a top-class events city.

“This Theatre will be an incredible asset, and will bring significant economic and community benefits to our city and region. Not only will it attract visitors, it will be a special part of the central city revitalisation riverside development, opening our city up to our beautiful river, which is what Hamiltonians have always wanted.”

The funding has come from existing budgets, where money earmarked for the annual property, equipment and asset maintenance funding grant had not been spent due to the delay in opening.

Angela O’Leary, Deputy Mayor and Creative Ambassador, said funding is more than just bricks and mortar, it’s about supporting the heart and soul of the community.

The retractable seating will make the Theatre a more flexible space with a quick turnaround between 600 seats on the lower level and a space for 1000 standing people. When extended, the floor will create a flat space for gala dinners, standing concerts, ballroom dancing, and other performances where people could stand or dance.

Yesterday’s funding decision is in addition to the $25 million Council contributed towards the new Theatre’s construction, development contributions relief, an event sponsorship fund contribution towards opening events, and the annual property, equipment and asset maintenance grant.

Council made the decision through a split vote of eight for and four against (Councillors Bydder, Pike, Taylor and Wilson). Councillor Macindoe declared a conflict of interest and did not participate in the discussion or vote.

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