About Lido Cinema
The Lido Cinema in Auckland’s Epsom suburb is a historic boutique movie theatre known for its intimate, art-house atmosphere. Originally opened as the Regent Theatre on 29 July 1924, it was one of suburban Auckland’s grand picture palaces, boasting 900 seats and a lavish set-up (cinematreasures.org ). The venue closed in the early 1960s but was swiftly reborn as the Lido (or Lido Continental) Cinema, refitted as an upmarket arthouse venue featuring foreign and independent films (dispatches.co.nz ) (dispatches.co.nz ). Over time the space has been “greatly changed” by several renovations, carving it into modern boutique theatres while preserving its vintage charm (dispatches.co.nz ) (dispatches.co.nz ). Today Lido is recognized as one of New Zealand’s oldest and most prestigious cinemas (www.crownaudio.com ), blending classic theatre architecture with state-of-the-art amenities. It currently operates three screens with a combined capacity of about 230 seats (cinematreasures.org ), including a cosy second auditorium (“The Lounge”) opened in 2005 and seating 44 people (www.crownaudio.com ). Signature features include its licensed bar in the foyer, comfortable seating (even reclining armchairs on the main floor), and a reputation for a carefully curated film programme. Lido’s long history and boutique setting make it a beloved part of the local culture, offering an alternative to multiplexes by celebrating cinema as an upscale, communal experience.
Events and Programming
Lido Cinema hosts a varied slate of movies and film events geared largely toward discerning audiences. The programme mixes mainstream releases with independent, foreign and classic films; it’s known for art-house titles and specialty series. Several times a year Lido participates in film festivals, such as the French Film Festival, British & Irish Film Festival and the New Zealand International Film Festival, bringing international cinema to Epsom’s doorstep. For example, Lido is an official venue for the NZIFF, and it regularly screens festival line-ups that other local theatres exclude (dispatches.co.nz ). The cinema also offers event screenings like live TV or cinema-broadcast operas and ballets – notably its Royal Opera/Ballet series – at special ticket prices (e.g. Opera/Ballet tickets are $24 for adults) (lido.co.nz ). Typical ticket prices (see Booking] for details) range roughly from $14 on Tuesday all-day specials to $19.50 for evening shows, with cheaper rates for students and seniors on off-peak days ([lido.co.nz ) (lido.co.nz ). Lido rarely books mainstream crowd-pleasers only; as one reviewer notes, “fewer blockbuster and children’s films” appear there (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). For arthouse fans, this reliance on European, indie and documentary titles is a draw, and popular series often run for extended seasons. Although primarily a cinema, Lido also welcomes private hires and small events. In short, you’ll find a rich mix of film screenings (including Q&As and retrospectives) rather than musicals or live theatre, with events frequently targeted at adult and cinephile audiences.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Lido Cinema can be purchased online via the official website or by calling the box office (09 630 1500). Online bookings are easy and carry no extra fees, and you can simply print tickets at home or show your mobile ticket at entry (lido.co.nz ). If booking by phone, you will be asked for your name, phone, number of tickets and desired showtime, and then pick up tickets at the theatre approximately 10 minutes before the session starts (lido.co.nz ). There is no membership scheme or outside ticketing partner – all sales go through Lido’s own box office and website. For popular shows it’s wise to book early (tickets often go on sale when the theatre releases new sessions online, typically 2–4 weeks in advance), and phone reservations can secure seats if the screening is nearly sold out. Same-day “walk-up” tickets may be available at the door, but space is limited by capacity.
Lido offers a variety of pricing tiers to suit different patrons. Concessions include children (15 and under), students (with ID) and seniors (65+) at reduced prices. For example, standard prices are roughly $16.00 for adults (and students) Monday–Friday before 5pm, while Tuesday all-day tickets are only $14.00 for adults (lido.co.nz ). After 5pm on most other days an adult ticket is $19.50 (lido.co.nz ). Concession tickets range from about $10.00–$15.00 depending on the day and time (lido.co.nz ) (lido.co.nz ). Special event screenings such as live opera or ballet cost around $24 (adult)/$12 (child) (lido.co.nz ). Check the website’s “Bookings/Prices” page or the flicks.co.nz listing for the latest price grid. Note this pricing is inclusive of any booking fee – Lido explicitly states it adds no extra fees beyond the face price (lido.co.nz ).
Seating and Layout
The Lido features three separate theatres. The main auditorium is the largest space, spanning two levels (stalls and a balcony). In its current form it seats the bulk of Lido’s audience – around 180 of the total capacity. The original balcony still exists, where historically patrons often favoured the front-row view (dispatches.co.nz ). The front row of the stalls (or “downstairs”) is equipped with plush reclining seats for extra comfort. For most films, the middle of the stalls is considered the prime seating area, with a clear sightline to the big screen. Because the auditorium is long and narrow, the centre seats balance view and audio, while the balcony (if open) offers a more classic cinema experience. Acoustics are very good throughout; the main screen uses a modern surround system, and The Lounge (see below) has been upgraded to a JBL 7.1 surround system (www.crownaudio.com ). There’s no strict “bad rows” advice aside from the usual (far side aisles can have some angle, and very front seats require looking up).
The smaller theatre, called The Lounge , opened in 2005 and seats 44 people (www.crownaudio.com ). This intimate gallery-style screening room has a wide screen with rear projection and even higher-end audio (JBL reference monitors and Crown amplifiers were installed in 2019 for a true Dolby 7.1 effect (www.crownaudio.com )). Any seat in The Lounge is good for sound; viewers often note the deep bass and crisp dialogue thanks to custom subwoofers (www.crownaudio.com ). Unlike the main hall, The Lounge does not have a balcony. It is often used for art-house and repertory screenings and is considered a plush, comfy venue (think club chairs and velvet curtains). The third screen is a very small, low-capacity room primarily used for niche showings or private hire – it has on the order of a few dozen seats and was added during later renovations (the exact count isn’t widely publicised, but fits within the total 230 seats for all screens (cinematreasures.org )).
Capacity: ~230 total seats across 3 screens (cinematreasures.org ) (www.crownaudio.com ).Layout: Main auditorium (stalls + balcony), Lounge (44 seats, new in 2005 (www.crownaudio.com )), and a small third screen.Seating style: Mix of padded theatre seats and a few recliners (front row of main cinema) (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). All seats have unobstructed views of the screen.Sound & Lighting: The main theatre is fully digital with powerful surround sound; The Lounge boasts a JBL 7.1 surround system (pro.harman.com ). Lighting presets in each auditorium create an immersive cinema feel, with minimal light spill.
Getting There and Parking
Address: 427 Manukau Road, Epsom, Auckland 1023 (lido.co.nz ). The cinema sits on Manukau Road near the Greenlane West intersection, about 10 minutes’ drive south of the city centre. Street parking surrounds the cinema, but be mindful of tow-away signs during weekday business hours.
Parking: For on-site parking, Lido does not have its own lot, but patrons may use the PARKMATE Sysmex car park located directly across Manukau Road (lido.co.nz ) (www.flicks.co.nz ). That parking building is free for Lido customers after 5.45pm on weekdays and throughout weekends (normally it’s pay-to-park, and tow-away rules are waived for Lido ticket holders at those times) (www.flicks.co.nz ). Otherwise, free street parking is often available in the nearby side streets. The precise rules can vary, so look for parking signs; the official site notes “Free Parking can currently be found on the streets surrounding the cinema” (lido.co.nz ). Keep in mind Greenlane and Epsom can get busy, so allow extra time in the evenings.
Public Transport: Several Auckland bus routes stop close to the Lido. AT Metro bus routes 30, 65, 309, 321 and the N10 Night Express all run along Manukau Road (moovitapp.com ), with bus stops within a short walk. These link Epsom to Onehunga, Ellerslie, the city centre and beyond. The nearest train services are the Southern, Western and Onehunga lines, with train stations (such as Greenlane or Ellerslie station) about 1–1.5 km north or east of Lido; from there a short bus or taxi ride or 10–15 minute walk gets you to the cinema (moovitapp.com ).
Rideshare/Taxi: Rideshare drop-offs can be made on Manukau Road right outside the venue, although busy traffic may require stopping a few doors down. The building façade is clearly marked “Lido” so it’s easy to spot. Always obey any parking zones (don’t block lanes). Taxis often use Greenlane West or nearby Alexandra Road as convenient turn-around spots.
Inside the Venue
Upon entry, you’ll find a cosy foyer with ticket counter and a licensed bar & café serving snacks and drinks. Lido is known for its friendly, old-fashioned service. Patrons can purchase traditional cinema fare – popcorn, ice-creams and sweets – alongside alcoholic beverages. A TripAdvisor reviewer notes you can enjoy “popcorn and ice cream but also a lovely glass of wine or barista coffee” while feeling pampered by attentive staff (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). The fully licensed bar offers beer, wine, spirits and barista-made coffee; the atmosphere is more cocktail-lounge than fast-food stand. This makes the foyer a nice place for a pre-movie drink or post-film chat. (One reviewer even called the Lido his “favourite movie theatre in Auckland” for this upscale vibe (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ).)
Cinema-goers should arrive a bit early—doors often open 10–15 minutes before showtime—to order at the bar and find seats. Lido accepts cash and major cards (no extra booking fees apply (lido.co.nz )). In terms of comfort, the restrooms were renovated relatively recently and are clean and well-maintained (red and gold carpets and updated fixtures from a 1940s remodelling remain as part of its heritage renovation package (dispatches.co.nz )). There is no formal coat check, so large coats or bags should be carried or kept at your seat if feasible – cloakroom space is limited. Scoped connectivity (free Wi-Fi) is not advertised, so assume it is not available inside. Wi-Fi may be provided only for staff or through the mobile ticket app.
Other notable features: The lounge area and ticket hall have vintage theatre posters and moody lighting, enhancing the nostalgic feel. The cinema plays trailers and short ads on screen before shows; it’s not a patron-owned or local co-op, so no “free slide before show” culture. Late entry: doors are usually closed quickly after show start. You need to show your ticket (print or phone) at the door. There is standard moviehouse etiquette enforced – no talking or photography during screenings, and most patrons ask to keep mobile phones off or silent. Smoking is strictly prohibited inside (as per NZ law), but there may be a small outside smoking area if needed.
Nearby Amenities
Lido Cinema is in a lively neighbourhood with plenty of options for meals, coffee or drinks before or after a film. Along Manukau Road and nearby Alba Road you’ll find a variety of cafes and restaurants. Within a block or two are several Asian eateries (for example, sushi bars, Malaysian and Chinese restaurants), pubs and wine bars, and a couple of pizzerias and burger joints. Notable spots include Sake Bar Nippon (Japanese) and KK Malaysian Cuisine just up the street (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ), and Golden Jade Chinese Restaurant a few shops away. For a more casual coffee or quick bite, there are local cafés often open until late. If you arrive early, grabbing dinner in Epsom is easy – local patrons recommend trying the Japanese sushi/poke bars or the Italian café-style restaurants, all a short walk from Lido. (Note: most places stop serving hot meals around 9pm, so plan accordingly for late-night shows.)
In terms of accommodation, several motels and hotels are in the area. For example, the Ascot Epsom Motel and Alexandra Park motels are both under 5 minutes’ drive from Lido. Newmarket and Greenlane also have numerous hotel options (e.g. Rydges Auckland on Greenlane Rd, and Novotel or Ibis at the nearby Hyatt complex), roughly a 5–10 minute drive north. These central Auckland hotels are convenient if you plan an overnight stay after an evening film. In summary, visitors will find a well-serviced locale: supermarkets, convenience stores (“dairies”), and even a pharmacy are all within a few blocks, so you can easily pick up snacks or essentials before heading to the movies.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Lido Cinema stands out as a local treasure thanks to its unique blend of history, atmosphere and programming. It is one of the few surviving suburban cinemas in Auckland that dates back to the golden age of cinema (www.crownaudio.com ). The exterior and interior retain old-world touches – classic signage, ornate light fixtures and velvet drapes – that give a sense of “old Auckland” charm. Inside, every detail emphasizes comfort and character: plush seating, art-deco styling and even little quirks (one longtime employee fondly recalled patrons’ coats draped over balcony rails in decades past (dispatches.co.nz )). Over the years, the Lido has built a reputation for high-quality film curation. In the 1960s it famously became Auckland’s premier arthouse theatre, nurturing an audience hungry for European auteur cinema when television threatened older suburban picture palaces (dispatches.co.nz ). Enthusiastic film fans would travel from around the city to catch subtitled classics and risqué new wave movies, making Lido a cultural hub. Decades later it still leans into that legacy: programming tends to be carefully chosen, often favoring critically acclaimed titles and cultural programs over mainstream summer blockbusters.
These traditions are reflected in how audiences talk about Lido. Reviewers praise its “classy, almost clubby feeling”, its well-stocked bar and old-fashioned friendly service (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ) (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). Local film guides note that its experience is on par with “city cinemas” – in fact one write-up said Lido aimed “to be on a par with, or even a cut above, city cinemas” after its 1960s makeover (dispatches.co.nz ). The upgraded sound system and cozy seating also draw both movie geeks and casual couples looking for a romantic date-night spot. The combination of rigorous artistry (hosting international film festivals, subtitled content and indie docs) and hint of nostalgia (the decorated foyer, vintage posters, boutique vibe) give it a personality all of its own.
In the Auckland scene, Lido’s impact is significant. It helped cultivate the city’s arthouse audience and laid the groundwork for today’s independent cinema movement. It also preserved an architectural piece of Epsom’s history – the building’s placement among local shops has meant the neighbourhood identity grew around it (the cinema has been called “a fine addition to the district” since its inaugural 1924 opening (dispatches.co.nz )). Culturally, having such a theatre outside the CBD enriches the wider community by making quality cinema more accessible to suburbs. Economically, Lido’s draw helps sustain surrounding businesses; on film nights the local eateries and even Alexandra Park’s events see extra foot traffic. All these factors make the Lido a cherished local institution: artists and audiences alike love its combination of heritage glamour and modern luxury, and frequent visitors are quick to rank it among Auckland’s top small cinemas (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ) (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Lido’s entrance and main foyer are on street level with no steps, so wheelchair users can enter at ground level. However, the historic main auditorium has a narrow balcony that is not wheelchair-accessible – wheelchair seating is only available on the stalls (ground floor). If you need assistance or a ramp, it’s best to call ahead to coordinate (the staff are usually helpful with arranging spaces). Restrooms are on the ground floor near the foyer. There are no elevators to the balcony, so if you require an accessible seat request it in advance; one or two wheelchair spots can be accommodated in the stalls per screening (once filled, hard seats in the first few rows are the only other options). Service animals (e.g. guide dogs) are welcome.
What to bring: As a licensed venue, Lido requires ID (driver’s licence or passport) if you wish to buy alcohol or attend 16+ or 18+ rated films. (Under-15s are not permitted to R16/R18 films.) Dress is casual – most people come in everyday clothes or smart-casual attire. You may bring in your own non-alcoholic snacks if needed, but food is readily available for purchase inside (the only major items not allowed would be glass bottles or alcohol, since there’s a bar on site). Electronic items: cell phones must be turned off or silenced during the movie. Cameras and video recording are not allowed in any theatre.
Arrival and seating: It’s recommended to arrive 10–15 minutes early (doors open shortly before showtime) so you can pick up tickets (if not printed already), grab snacks/coffee at the counters, and avoid rushing. Note that for peak shows (especially Friday/Saturday evenings) parking and lines can get tight after 7pm; arriving earlier also makes finding parking or catching a bus easier. The cinema labels seats with letters/numbers (e.g. Rows C9–10 in balcony (dispatches.co.nz ), etc.). Once seated, settle in quickly. Ushers are gentle about guiding latecomers to the back of the room, but re-entry after the film starts can be held up to minimize distractions.
Food and drink: The onsite bar/café sells a full snack selection – popcorn of course, candy, gelato, and freshly brewed barista coffee (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). Unlike some chain cinemas, Lido also serves wine, beer and spirits, making it possible to enjoy a drink during the film (many visitors mention this as part of the “boutique” experience). Prices are on the higher side (as expected in New Zealand and given the smaller scale of the venue), but the service and quality are usually praised. Quick tip: the friendly staff will adsorb the tab behind your seat so you don’t miss moments, but you can also pre-order at the bar and they’ll deliver it once the movie starts.
Common mistakes: Don’t wait until the last minute to buy tickets for a popular screening – Lido’s limited capacity means sell-outs do happen, especially for festivals or weekends. Also, double-check street cleaning or tow warnings on Manukau Road; many locals have found their cars towed if parked illegally (remember the Sysmex workaround after hours). If you’re attending with kids, confirm the film rating in advance – Lido’s schedule is more mature-leaning, and there may not be a very early child-friendly session on weekends. Finally, be mindful that there is only one small exit/entrance, so lines to use the restroom just before show starts can grow; it’s best to use facilities beforehand if you can.
Last-minute info: Check the Lido website or local cinema listings for exact showtimes on any given day (the site shows a 7-day schedule). The cinema usually runs movies every day of the week from mid-afternoon through late evening, except on rare occasions (special events or private hires can close the cinema). If in doubt, a quick call to the box office staff (who are said to be very helpful) can confirm times and any updated policies. Enjoy the film!
Frequently Asked Questions
How many screens and seats does Lido Cinema have?
Lido is a small multi-screen cinema. It has three theatres in total with about 230 seats combined (cinematreasures.org ). The main auditorium is the largest (roughly 180 seats across stalls and balcony) and features cushioned seating. The second screen is a small 44-seat room called “The Lounge” (opened circa 2005) (www.crownaudio.com ). A very compact third screen holds the remaining seats. Overall it’s much smaller than a multiplex, so screens fill up quickly.
How do I buy tickets and what do they cost?
Tickets can be purchased online at Lido’s website or by phone (09 630 1500). There are no extra fees for online booking; you can print tickets at home or show your phone ticket. In-person box office sales are available shortly before each show. Pricing varies by day/time: for example, weekday afternoons (excluding Tues & public holidays) adults are ~$16, seniors/children ~$10.50 (lido.co.nz ); Tuesdays all day are ~ $14 for adults (lido.co.nz ). Evenings and weekends cost around $19.50 for adults, with seniors ~$12.50 and students ~$15 (lido.co.nz ). Children’s tickets (age ≤15) are usually $10 or less. Special screenings (like live opera) have their own rates (e.g. Opera/Ballet year is $24 adult (lido.co.nz )). Always check the website’s current price list for exact rates.
Where is Lido Cinema and what transport options are nearby?
Lido’s address is 427 Manukau Road, Epsom, Auckland . Street parking is available along Manukau Road and surrounding streets (though watch for tow-away zones during business hours) (lido.co.nz ). A convenient paid “Parkmate” lot at the Sysmex building across the road offers free parking to Lido patrons after 5:45pm on weekdays and all weekend (www.flicks.co.nz ). For public transit, several bus routes (e.g. 30, 65, 309, 321, N10) stop along Manukau Road nearby (moovitapp.com ). The closest train service is on Auckland’s suburban rail (the Southern/Western lines) with Greenlane and Ellerslie stations roughly a 10-minute walk or short bus from Lido. There is no dedicated drop-off chute, but taxis or rideshare cars can pull up on Manukau Road right in front (just watch traffic).
What are the best seats or areas to sit in?
For the main auditorium, seats in the centre of the stalls (ground floor) and a few rows back from the screen give the most balanced view and sound. The front row in the stalls is unique (it has recliner-style armchairs for extra comfort) (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ), but some viewers prefer higher seats for an unobstructed view. The balcony (upstairs) provides a classic cinema feel, though some venturing there may miss the high-fidelity speakers downstairs. In The Lounge (the 44-seat room), any seat offers a great view with its high-quality rear-projected screen; the room is small so you won’t be “too far” from the screen. In general, avoid extreme side seats if you like straight viewing, and avoid standing too high in the balcony if you’re short on legroom.
Does the Lido Cinema have wheelchair access?
The ground floor (foyer and main stalls) is step-free, so wheelchair users can enter the cinema easily. However, the historic building’s upper balcony is not accessible (no lift), so wheelchair-accessible seating is limited to the stalls area. Lido can accommodate a wheelchair in the front rows of the main screen (which are on flat floor space). If planning to attend in a wheelchair, it’s best to notify the cinema in advance so they can reserve an appropriate seat on the ground level. Seating in The Lounge can also be arranged to allow wheelchair spots. The restrooms are on the ground floor, but they are relatively compact. In summary: yes, it has level entry and some accessible seating, but spaces are limited – contact Lido staff for help.
What food and drink can I buy at Lido?
Lido’s concession stand includes classic movie snacks (freshly popped popcorn, hot chips, nachos, a range of sweets and ice-cream). It also has a full-service licensed bar: you can purchase beer, wine, cocktails and barista-style hot drinks (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). One reviewer even called it a café-style menu, praising the wine selection and coffee. Keep in mind that outside alcoholic drinks are prohibited, but you may bring your own small snacks (subject to staff discretion). Prices are on par with other Auckland cinemas for food/drink. There is no full kitchen, so it’s mostly quick bites and beverages, not hot meals.
Are children allowed and what are age restrictions?
Lido shows films of all ratings, but many are international or arthouse titles with higher age certificates. In New Zealand, under-16s cannot legally watch R16 films and under-18s cannot watch R18 films. The Lido strictly enforces these rules, checking ID at the door for R-rated movies (the ticket terms specify you must be of the appropriate age (lido.co.nz )). If bringing children to a PG or G movie, they’re welcome (children’s tickets are cheaper), but be aware that Lido’s programme tends to feature fewer very low-rated kids’ films than big family multiplexes (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). Lido does not normally run “drop-off” kids’ clubs or babysitting – children 12 and under should be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Also, the late-night showtimes may not be suitable for young kids, so plan to attend earlier sessions if bringing minors.
Can I take photos or record video inside the cinema?
No. Filming or photography in the cinemas is prohibited (this is standard movie theatre policy to protect filmmakers’ copyrights). Please keep cameras and phones off or stowed away once you enter the theatre. Using flash or video recording during the movie will disturb others, and staff will ask you to stop if noticed. You are, however, welcome to take pictures outside in the lobby or with the building’s facade; many visitors do snap the vintage marquee before shows.
Is outside food or drink allowed?
Outside alcoholic beverages are not allowed (it’s a licensed venue); outside hot food or large meals are generally discouraged as well. You may bring small personal snacks (pre-packaged popcorn may be allowed) if needed, but since Lido offers a full snack bar, most people simply buy there. Bringing big takeout meals from outside restaurants is frowned upon, both out of courtesy and policy. Water bottles are usually okay (and plastic bottles can be left at your seat), but it’s polite to ask staff if unsure. In short: rely on Lido’s own food service, and plan dinner/drinks either before or after the film unless it’s just a simple snack.
What happens if I arrive late?
Lido advises arriving in time for the showtime on your ticket. Ushers typically stop seating latecomers after the movie has started. If you do arrive late, quietly wait for a natural break (often between trailers and the feature, or during a scene change) and an usher will guide you to the nearest open seat (usually in the back rows to minimise disturbance). The theatre tries to avoid interrupting the film for late arrivals, but it’s not a “watch from the lobby” situation – everyone is seated inside once the show begins. Therefore, plan your arrival so you don’t miss any part of the screening.
Are there dress codes or bag policies?
Lido does not enforce a strict dress code – casual wear is normal, though many patrons dress up a little for evening screenings. As a courtesy, avoid wearing strong perfumes or overly bulky backpacks. There is no formal bag check, but large suitcases or gym bags are not practical in the small aisles and may be refused. Shouting or rowdy attire is frowned upon. In short, just be respectful cinema-goers. Finally, smoking is banned indoors and in most adjacent outdoor areas by law, so plan to step well outside if you need a cigarette break.
