4 Best Performing Arts in Christchurch and Canterbury, New Zealand

The grand lady of Christchurch's theater scene, dating back to 1908, was fully restored in 2014. This opulent setting, complete with an intricate painted ceiling dome and marble staircase, hosts some of New Zealand's best touring shows including ballet and music. It is also home to a giant screen for the New Zealand International Film Festival, held every July. Get dressed up and enjoy the glamour of a bygone era in the comfort of today's plushest seating. There are stylish bars on every level for a drink before the show or during intermission.

In odd-numbered years, the city hosts a late-winter, month-long arts festival, featuring everything from dance and theater to comedy, visual art, and cabaret.

The Christchurch Town Hall underwent a NZ$167 million restoration after being damaged in the earthquakes. It opened in stages with the main auditorium, foyer and function rooms in February 2019, followed by the James Hay Theatre and facilities for the Christchurch Symphony Orchestra later that year. With superb acoustics, the 2,500-seat auditorium is recognized as one of finest concert halls in the world.

Tickets for many performance venues and concerts are sold through Ticketek online.