About 231 Stuart St
231 Stuart Street is a landmark heritage building in central Dunedin, at the southwest corner of Stuart and Moray Place near the Octagon. It was originally built as Trinity Methodist Church in 1869–70, designed by prominent architect R.A. Lawson in a Gothic Revival style with stone walls, lancet windows and a large rose window (www.encirclephotos.com ). The church long served as the principal Methodist “Cathedral of Otago” before being repurposed as a theatre. In 1978 the Fortune Theatre company moved into the building, and it remained a professional theatre until 2018 (infocouncil.dunedin.govt.nz ). Today the 468 m² building is held by the Dunedin City Council as a heritage asset (Heritage NZ Category I) (infocouncil.dunedin.govt.nz ). The stone exterior has solid local stone walls and a pitched slate-and-copper roof (infocouncil.dunedin.govt.nz ), and its tall peaked roof and turret make it distinctive in the city streetscape. This combination of historic architecture, intimate seating (see below), and cultural history makes 231 Stuart Street unique: it was once the world’s southernmost professional theatre company (www.theatreview.org.nz ) and a central incubator for Dunedin’s stage arts. The building’s heritage façade and high interior ceilings give it a special character that visitors find memorable.
Events and Programming
From its opening as a theatre in 1978 until the company’s closure in 2018, 231 Stuart Street (Fortune Theatre) was home to a year-round program of plays, musicals, comedies and classic dramas. Over that 40-year period the company produced more than 400 different productions (www.odt.co.nz ), ranging from contemporary New Zealand works (notably plays by Kiwi writers like Roger Hall (www.odt.co.nz )) to classics like Shakespeare. The venue housed two performance spaces: a main auditorium seating 230 and a smaller 104-seat studio (fortunetheatre.co.nz ), allowing Fortune to run productions concurrently and offer flexible, experimental staging. Popular shows often played multiple weeks, and the theatre was known for launching many local actors and directors – for example, celebrated actress Dame Hilary Norris performed there on more than 60 occasions (www.odt.co.nz ). After the sudden announcement on May 1, 2018, the theatre ceased operations immediately (www.encirclephotos.com ), so no events have taken place at 231 Stuart since then. Until that closure, the season typically ran in the cold months (roughly April–November) with evening performances Tuesday–Saturday and matinees on weekends; for example, historically shows opened Tuesday at 6pm, ran 7:30pm Wed–Sat and 4:00pm Sundays (fortunetheatre.co.nz ). Ticket prices in recent seasons were around NZ$34–42 for adults (with concessions for seniors, students and early-bird sales) (fortunetheatre.co.nz ). In summary, the building’s program was a professional theatrical season – however, at present there are no scheduled events or performances, as ownership considers future use of the space.
Tickets and Booking
Currently there is no active box office at 231 Stuart Street because the venue is closed. When Fortune Theatre operated, audiences could buy tickets online or at the venue’s box office. The box office was located on site (near the entrance on Stuart Street) and was open daily during show runs (for example, weekdays until 6–7:30pm, weekends before performances) (fortunetheatre.co.nz ). Popular shows tended to sell out in advance, so the best strategy was to book early – months ahead for major Math readings. For example, adult tickets typically cost around NZ$40–45, with early-bird and concession pricing available (fortunetheatre.co.nz ). There were usually no discounted door sales for sold-out performances; advance purchase (online or at the box office) was strongly recommended. In practice, one would have called or visited the Fortune Theatre Box Office (phone or in person) or gone online via the official theatre website. Since there are no scheduled productions now, no tickets are currently on sale. Anyone interested in future events can watch council and Arts announcements; if the building is reactivated, any ticketing will likely use a similar system of advance reservations and standard theatre pricing.
Seating and Layout
The interior of 231 Stuart Street is divided into two main performance spaces. The larger Main Auditorium (often called the Fortune Theatre main stage) seats about 230 people (fortunetheatre.co.nz ). The seating is arranged in level rows on a slight rake, all facing a proscenium stage. A smaller Studio Theatre behind or adjacent to the main hall seats about 104 people (fortunetheatre.co.nz ); this space is often used for more intimate plays or experimental events. Both spaces had fixed theatre seating and clearly numbered rows. Because the house is relatively small and all seats face the stage, most seats offer a clear view of the action – the design minimized any obstructed views. Visitors often find the best seats to be in the center of the stalls (middle of each row) around 4–8 rows back from the stage, where sightlines and sound balance are ideal. The front row in the main theatre is very close to the stage (an immersive perspective), while the back rows and side edges may feel slightly distant or at an angle, but still within hearing range. In the studio space, all seats are similarly close to the small stage. The auditorium acoustics are generally quite good thanks to the stone walls and high ceiling – speech and music carry clearly to all parts of the hall. There was no general admission standing area – every patron had an assigned seat on the ticket. (If reopened, seating would remain reserved; there are no ‘festival passes’ or unreserved bleachers.) The venue did not have a formal VIP section or boxes: every seat is essentially the same style, though front-center seats would typically sell first for premium events.
Getting There and Parking
231 Stuart Street is in the heart of Dunedin’s CBD (postcode 9016). Map searches and GPS will show it at the corner of Stuart and Moray Place (just a block southwest of the Octagon). Being in the city centre, it is easily reached by most forms of transport. By car, street parking is available on Stuart and side streets, but spaces are limited and usually metered (typically around NZ$2 an hour). The nearest large public car park is the St Andrew Street Car Park (36 Anzac Avenue, about a block east), which has roughly 265 spaces (www.parkopedia.co.nz ) and allows all-day parking (about NZ$8 for 2 hours as of recent data). There is also a multi-storey parking building on St Andrew Street (with 265 spaces (www.parkopedia.co.nz )) accessible from Anzac Ave, which is convenient for a full-evening stay. Rideshare/taxi drivers can drop patrons directly on Stuart Street outside the venue; there is a taxi rank on nearby Moray Place at the railway station, and several taxi apps operate throughout Dunedin.
Public transport is very convenient: Dunedin’s bus network (Orbus) has frequent routes stopping at the Octagon or along Princes, the Exchange and Stuart Street. The Moray Place / Octagon stops (a 1–2 minute walk away) are served by most city routes. For instance, city circular buses (routes 3, 18, 77 etc.) all pass within one block of the venue heading into Octagon. The central bus stops at the Octagon are about 100 metres from 231 Stuart, near Speight’s Ale House and the public library. From the railway station (400m from Moray Place) it is a 5–10 minute walk north along Cumberland and lower Stuart Street. The University of Otago campuses are a 15–20 minute walk south. If arriving from Dunedin Airport, taxis or airport shuttle connect to the central city. Overall, walks from key city hubs are short (most points in the CBD are within 10 minutes’ walk).
Inside the Venue
Inside 231 Stuart Street, visitors would find a typically cozy theatre atmosphere once Fortune was running. Entering through the main doors on Stuart Street, one would step into a foyer or lobby space. In historical use, there was a coat-check/cloakroom where patrons could leave outerwear (common in theatrical venues), and a small lobby area with show posters. The interior walls retain exposed stone and wood trim, giving an old-church charm. The main auditorium itself features rows of upholstered seats (usually padded volunteer theatre seats), red curtains on stage, and vintage-style lighting fixtures along the aisles. The ceiling soars overhead, and the room had a well-maintained historic feel. There was also a fully equipped bar/cafe lounge on the mezzanine or main floor (fortunetheatre.co.nz ) – audiences could buy alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks at intermission. (Indeed, the Fortune regularly offered drinks service, enhancing the social experience.) Restrooms were available on the ground floor near the lobby. Modern amenities such as heating were present, but because the building is old, it could still feel cool off-season; many patrons would bring a sweater or jacket. The venue had no free public Wi-Fi advertised; guests relied on mobile service (Dunedin has city-wide wifi in some central areas).
In terms of atmosphere, audience members have described the theatre as intimate and informal – a night at the Fortune felt like attending a local friend’s production. Unfortunately, since 2018 there is no active front-of-house staff or ongoing concessions in the building – if you arrive now, you’ll mostly see a dark auditorium. However, visitors interested in the space commonly appreciate the historic interior: for example, the original stained-glass windows (above the stage and in vestibule) cast patterned light at daytime. Merely viewing the hallways and seating can still be rewarding for architecture lovers. Security procedures (when it was open) were minimal – typical for a small city theatre – so patrons did not experience airport-style checks; it is just a relaxed performance environment. As always with theatre etiquette, no photography or recording is allowed during shows, and (if it were open) audiences should silence cell phones and watch where they step in dim light.
Nearby Amenities
The location of 231 Stuart Street makes it very convenient for pre- and post-show activities. It is practically adjacent to Dunedin’s Octagon, the city’s central plaza. Within about a five-minute walk of the corner you’ll find dozens of cafés, bars and restaurants. For example, beneath the Octagon are several casual dining spots (Italian, Greek, tapas) and a few trendy bars like the Goose or Minor Correction. On surrounding blocks there are pubs (e.g., Speight’s Ale House on Stuart St), coffee lounges (Best Café, Viva) and dessert spots. Sports and music fans often meet at Hanover Hall (2 The Octagon), only 100 m away, after Fortune shows.
For visitors who want a meal before a performance, well-regarded restaurants nearby include *Paisano’s Bistro* (Italian, Octagon), *Good Oil* (Italian/pasta), *Wellington Row* cafes, and *Cali Mamas* (burgers). Several fine dining options (like The Perc on Lawn St) are a 10-minute walk. There are also quick snack shops and a bottle shop (liquor store) right on the Octagon for drinks, as well as pharmacies and convenience stores if you need anything last-minute.
If staying overnight, there are a number of hotels and hostels within easy reach. The closest hotels include the Distinction Dunedin Hotel (on Moray Place, just adjacent), Scenic Hotel Southern Cross and Ibis Dunedin Centre (both at the Octagon), and Holiday Inn Express (Clyde Street, a 3-minute walk). A popular backpacker/affordable option is the Dunedin Chateau on Liverpool Street (4 minutes away). Taxis and rideshares can also deliver guests to the Octagon taxi rank after a late show – the same buses mentioned above operate until around midnight on weekends. In short, whether you want a leisurely dinner, a late-night coffee or a nearby room, almost everything you need is within a few blocks of 231 Stuart Street.
What Makes This Venue Special
231 Stuart Street stands out for several reasons. Architecturally, it is a fine example of 19th-century ecclesiastical design by Robert Lawson. Its Gothic Revival elements (tall arched windows, stone buttresses, rose window) give it cathedral-like grandeur on a smaller scale (www.encirclephotos.com ). Even if you come only to admire architecture, you’ll notice features such as the quarry-faced stone walls, the classic slate spire, and a reading of the carved church insignia above the entrance. Its heritage listing as a Category 1 building (infocouncil.dunedin.govt.nz ) reflects this significance in Otago’s built history. Inside, the carved wooden sanctuary ceiling and original stained glass (viewable from outside or tour) are still preserved, creating an atmosphere unlike a modern auditorium.
Culturally, 231 Stuart Street/Fortune Theatre was once an institution in Dunedin. For decades it was the city’s main professional theatre, staging everything from major musical productions to cutting-edge New Zealand plays. It had the unique distinction of being “the world’s southernmost professional theatre” (www.theatreview.org.nz ), which locals are proud of. This meant tours by New Zealand and international companies sometimes included Dunedin. Over the years, many famous Kiwi theatre figures passed through – the venue hosted Roger Hall, Renée (Hilary) Norris (making her NZ stage career here (www.odt.co.nz )), and countless others. For the community, it was a gathering place: annual events like children’s theatre workshops and Fringe Festival shows often filled its seats. The building even survived a major fire in 1979 (when its stage was destroyed) and was rebuilt, illustrating its role as a resilient cultural centre.
Local traditions have grown around it. Regular patrons recall wearing suits to opening nights and meeting cast at the lobby bar afterwards. There’s even local lore of friendly “ghost stories” (a typical tale for old theatres, though purely for fun) from the old church days. Finally, the combination of old-world charm and theatrical energy is what many visitors remember. Performing artists often speak of the intimacy here: from any vantage point, the stage is close and voices carry well. For audiences and actors alike, 231 Stuart Street offered a sense of warmth and connection – the feeling that “we’re all in this together under one roof”. Even now, many Dunedinians fondly regard the building as a special place in the heart of the city’s arts scene.
Visitor Tips and Information
Current Status: It is important to note that as of 2025, 231 Stuart Street is not hosting events. The former theatre company is closed and the city council is exploring options for the building (www.odt.co.nz ) (infocouncil.dunedin.govt.nz ). If you come expecting a show, you will find the doors locked and no box office. Walk-in tours are not regularly offered. The exterior can be viewed any time (it’s adjacent to public footpaths), but the interior is not open for casual visits. Always check official Dunedin City Council or arts listings to see if this status changes.
Timing Your Visit: For any future performance (if the building reopens), it would be wise to arrive at least 20 minutes before curtain to find your seat and use the facilities. If you will be dining nearby or exploring the Octagon, factor that into your timing. The Octagon dining and shops usually start closing around 10pm, so if a show runs late, plan transportation ahead.
Transport Tips: Because parking downtown can be busy, consider public transport on event nights. Evening bus services still run (check Orbus schedules for late-night routes). If driving, allow extra time to find a spot. Set your GPS for “231 Stuart Street” or nearby landmarks (for example, Pin Democracy, the bar on Moray Place). Rideshare pick-up/drop-off lanes can get busy, so agree on a clear meeting spot (the Octagon ranks or the southern end of Stuart Street are common).
Accessibility: The building was upgraded only minimally for disability access. There is no elevator, so wheelchair users can only access ground-floor seating in the main auditorium. (The mezzanine/studio upstairs is not step-free.) The venue has wide doorways and level entries at the street entrance, but you may need assistance if you need to reach the top row. The council’s recent reports note that a lift would need to be added for full access (www.odt.co.nz ). If mobility is a concern, request a ground-level seat when booking (if shows ever resume).
What to Bring: If attending a performance here in the past, patrons typically wore smart-casual clothing (suits and dresses were common for opening nights, but jeans and shirts were fine too). The theatre is indoors with heating, but New Zealand winters can be chilly; a light wrap is useful. Photography and audio recording devices are prohibited during shows, so keep phones off or silent. Outside food and drink are not allowed in the auditorium (there is a bar inside). Large bags are discouraged; if you have bulky items, leaving them in a car or at hotel is best. Check the Fortune theatre masthead for any notes on weather delays – but usually, indoor performances run rain or shine.
Age and Family: There was no fixed age limit for entry – children were welcome if the show content was appropriate. (Family-friendly plays often happened during holidays.) Remember that some productions may be rated for mature audiences, so plan accordingly. The theatre is a smoke-free venue (New Zealand law forbids smoking indoors and within 10 metres of entrances). The lobby is a good place with kids if you need a short break during mellow scenes. As always, being considerate to other audience members (quiet, attentive behavior) is expected.
Inside Hints: If you used to attend shows here, you’ll remember a friendly local staff at the door. In the main hall, there was typically a small step or threshold to enter the seating area – watch your footlight as you take your seats. Many people say that the acoustics are so clear you may not even need to be in the premium seats for good sound; any central seat in the first two-thirds of the hall will hear well. In older theatres, front rows sometimes expect actors’ view so you might look straight up at faces – that’s part of the charm.
Insider Tip: On waitlist nights in the past, staff sometimes sold last-minute or standing-room tickets if the show was full – but this was not guaranteed. If the building ever reopens, try calling the box office on the day of a sold-out show in case of returns. Also, if you see a rehearsal or theatre event announced for 231 Stuart on arts community boards, it's often a unique opportunity (historically, the building was only used occasionally for things other than Fortune shows).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is at 231 Stuart Street Dunedin?
The address 231 Stuart Street is the historic building that housed the Fortune Theatre. It is an old stone church converted into a theatre. As of 2025, the building is vacant (with a council-owned status) and is not an operating event venue. It’s a heritage-protected structure valued for its architecture and history, though currently unused. (infocouncil.dunedin.govt.nz ) (www.odt.co.nz )
Can I buy tickets to a show at 231 Stuart St?
No. Since the Fortune Theatre company closed in 2018 (www.encirclephotos.com ), there are no shows happening at 231 Stuart Street. Therefore, tickets are not on sale. If the venue ever reopens for events, updated ticketing info would be announced by the city or arts organizations at that time.
How many seats does 231 Stuart Street have?
The venue was divided into two theatres: the Main Auditorium had about 230 seats (fortunetheatre.co.nz ), and the Studio Theatre seated about 104 people (fortunetheatre.co.nz ). Together that made roughly 334 seats. All seating was reserved; there was no unreserved standing area.
Is there parking available near 231 Stuart St?
The venue itself has no dedicated car park. However, street parking is available on Stuart Street and nearby (metered most days). The closest large parking lot is on St Andrew Street (36 Anzac Ave), about 200 meters east, which has around 265 spaces (www.parkopedia.co.nz ). This multi-storey car park is convenient for visiting the Octagon area. Smaller private garages are also scattered nearby, plus some free all-night parking on Sunday evening.
Which bus should I take to get to 231 Stuart St?
Dunedin’s main bus routes all go via the Octagon or Princes Street, one block from 231 Stuart. For example, Orbus routes 3, 18, 77 and others stop near the Octagon or on Princes/Moray. Get off at the Octagon or Moray Place stop and walk to the Stuart Street corner. Virtually any city bus heading toward the Octagon will let you off a very short walk from 231 Stuart.
Are there wheelchair accessible seats at 231 Stuart Street?
Accessibility is limited. The building has no elevator (www.odt.co.nz ), so only ground-level seating in the main theatre is wheelchair-accessible. If renovated for events, staff would likely reserve front-row or aisle seats on the ground floor for wheelchair users. However, the upper mezzanine/studio area would not be accessible by wheelchair without new construction. Patrons needing easy access were advised to contact the theatre in advance (when it was active).
Is photography allowed inside 231 Stuart Street?
As in most theatres, personal photography and video recording during performances was not allowed, to avoid disturbing performers and other audience members. Flash photography or filming would have been banned inside the auditorium. Visitors are welcome to take exterior photos of the building, however.
What is the dress code for events at 231 Stuart St?
The atmosphere was relaxed, so there was no formal dress code. Audience members typically dressed in smart-casual attire (jeans with a nice top or a casual dress/suit), especially for evening performances. On gala or opening nights patrons sometimes wore semi-formal outfits. In any case, a warm layer is recommended in cooler weather, since buildings with old stone walls can be chilly.
Are food and drinks available inside 231 Stuart St?
Yes. The theatre had a bar/lounge area adjacent to the lobby (fortunetheatre.co.nz ) where alcohol and soft drinks were sold during intermissions. Concessions (wine, beer, juice) could be purchased after the doors opened and are typically served at set break times in the show. Outside food was not permitted in the seating areas. If attending an event (when it was open), you could arrive early and enjoy a drink in the lounge before the performance.
Was 231 Stuart Street historically significant?
Yes. The building has been a cornerstone of Dunedin’s community for over 150 years. As Trinity Methodist Church it introduced Methodism to Otago and was called “the Cathedral of Otago Methodism” (www.odt.co.nz ). Later, as the Fortune Theatre it was one of the city’s key theatres for four decades. It is Heritage NZ Category I listed (infocouncil.dunedin.govt.nz ), meaning it has national historical importance. Its role in local arts and its unique architecture make it a special part of Dunedin’s identity.
Who owns 231 Stuart Street?
Dunedin City Council owns the building. The Council purchased it from the theatre trust in 2000 (infocouncil.dunedin.govt.nz ) and has been responsible for it since. The City Council decided in 2023–25 that the site should no longer be held as a protected asset, and it is now being prepared for potential sale or community re-use (infocouncil.dunedin.govt.nz ) (www.odt.co.nz ).
What happened to the Fortune Theatre company?
The Fortune Theatre company closed abruptly on 1 May 2018 due to financial insolvency (www.encirclephotos.com ). The building itself remained, but with no company to run it, the theatre shut down. Council and community groups have since discussed transforming the space (for example, reopening it under a new model), but nothing has resumed as of 2025.
Can I attend an event at 231 Stuart Street now?
Not at present. Since Fortune Theatre closed in 2018, there have been no scheduled performances there. There are no ticketed events or exhibitions currently on offer. Interested visitors should keep an eye on Dunedin City Council announcements or arts news for any future plans, as the next use of the building is still under consideration.
Is 231 Stuart Street open to the public any other way?
Right now, the building is essentially closed off. The interior is only accessible for maintenance or by special arrangement. If a community group or tour were ever permitted, it would be announced by the city. In practice, you can always walk by and view the outside of this historic building (which is visible day and night), but you can’t just walk inside without an event.
How do I get to 231 Stuart Street from the Octagon?
The Octagon is Dunedin’s centre circle. From the Octagon you can either walk along Stuart Street (downhill towards the University) for about 50 metres, or walk two blocks via Moray Place. In either case it’s only a minute or two on foot. The building is on the corner of Stuart and Moray, so if you see the bar Precinct on one corner and a small city park (Smeaton’s Tower detail) on the other, you’re right there.
