About Queenstown Memorial Centre
The Queenstown Memorial Centre is a multi-purpose community venue in the heart of Queenstown’s central business district . Built originally as the town’s WWII memorial hall in the late 1950s, it continues the “living memorial” tradition (cultural/recreational space in remembrance of local soldiers) . Today the centre offers a flexible auditorium, two function rooms, a lounge (the RSA “Gallipoli Room”), a commercial kitchen and bar . Its signature features include an outdoor patio deck overlooking the adjacent recreation ground and war memorial plaques in the foyer (honouring Wakatipu District servicemen) . The main hall can be configured for theater or banquet seating and is one of Queenstown’s largest indoor venues (about 336 m², seating ~422) . Over the years it has become a central hub for concerts, theatre, conferences and community events, making it a notable landmark in Queenstown’s cultural scene . (Its Māori name is Te Whare Raumahara o Tāhuna.)
Events and Programming
【89†L10-L17†embed_image】The Memorial Centre hosts a wide variety of events year-round. Recent programs have ranged from touring comedy and music acts to local theatre and film screenings. For example, it has staged international stand-up comedians (Ed Byrne’s “Tragedy Plus Time” was held there in 2024 , as were shows by Heath Franklin, Wilson Dixon and Kevin Bloody Wilson ). Music events have included tribute concerts (e.g. an Elton John vs Billy Joel NZ tribute) and bands (Salmonella Dub’s 2025 show) . The Lakes Theatre Arts society regularly mounts stage productions here (past shows include *Spamalot* and *Movie Mashup* ). The venue also hosts touring film festivals (Banff Mountain Film World Tour in May 2024 ) and community wellness events (like a “Sound Journey” meditation evening ). In general, ticket prices tend to vary: local theatre/multi-act shows might be in the $20–$40 range, while headliner concerts and comedy (with premium seating) can run $50–70+ . Recurring annual events include Anzac Day commemorations and civic ceremonies, as well as occasional trade shows and charity functions on the centre’s large floor area .
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for performances at the Memorial Centre are sold through official promoters and ticket agencies rather than an on-site box office. Each event usually announces ticket sales months in advance on NZ ticketing platforms (e.g. Eventfinda, Ticketek, TicketFairy, etc.) or through promoters. There is no permanent ticket desk in the hall except on show nights, and tickets are typically printed or scanned on entry. To avoid disappointment, it’s best to buy early – many popular shows do sell out. For example, a recent Ed Byrne comedy show offered tiered pricing (Gold and Silver seats at roughly $70 and $60 each) . Keep an eye on local listings (QLDC and venue social media) for presale or door-sale information. As a guideline, standard bookings may incur a small service fee plus GST. Note that some events have age restrictions (for instance the Byrne show was rated R15 ) – always check the event’s policy and bring ID for any 18+ shows. For general enquiries about booking or availability (e.g. group sales or venue hire), the Queenstown Lakes District Council’s venue team can be contacted by phone (03 450 9111) .
Seating and Layout
The main auditorium has a flat-floor layout with retractable seating at the rear. In full theatre mode it seats up to 422 people . A 5-metre-high acoustic wall can be lowered to divide the hall for smaller events . When fully cleared, the hall holds about 500 standing (cocktail) canapés or banquet dining for ~250 guests . The retractable seats (172 of them) fold away under a short mezzanine at the back of the hall . Sightlines are very good in the center – the best seats are usually mid-hall, center, for a clear view of the stage. Side-rear seats are slightly narrower but fully usable. There are no balconies or pillars obstructing view. Note that for general admission or party events, the front floor space may be standing room only. (As one promoter noted, the hall “will never be a supreme performance venue,” but renovations have refreshed it significantly .) The hall’s wood floors and newly added acoustic paneling improve sound quality , and the in-house PA and stage lighting rig provide professional-level effects . For dining functions, round tables can be set up on the floor – it seats about 250 at tables . Dressing rooms and a small gallery/tech booth sit behind the stage for performers.
Getting There and Parking
The Memorial Centre is at 1 Memorial Street, Queenstown, right beside the gardens and courts near Shotover Street . It’s very central – just a few blocks from the main dining and bar precinct. Street parking on Memorial/Streets can be limited (often 2-hour meters), so many visitors use nearby public lots. For example, Wilson Parking’s Church Street carpark (entrance off Church Street) is a covered lot charging about $3.50 per half hour . Another option is the Man Street Car Park (license-plate pay), which is $3.50 per 30 minutes and caps around $42/day . A few disabled parking spots are available near the front entrance . Rideshare and taxi drop-offs are usually done on Memorial Street or on Brecon Street (a block away) – there’s space to pull over briefly for drop-off or pick-up.
Public transit is convenient: several Orbus routes stop within a 5–10 minute walk . The nearest bus stops are the Steamer Wharf/Crowne Plaza stop (about 4 min walk, served by route 1 to Frankton and Kelvin Heights) and the Stanley Street Courthouse hub (6 min walk, for routes 4 and 5 to Arrowtown/Lake Hayes) . Queenstown’s ferry service (#6) also docks at Queenstown Bay (5 min from the centre) . Buses run from early morning (e.g. #5 leaves Frankton at ~5:53 am) until after midnight . If coming from Queenstown Airport, the drive to the CBD takes about 10–15 minutes via State Highway 6. In summer, consider walking (ice-cream on the lakefront is climb) or cycling – bike racks are available nearby.
Inside the Venue
On arrival you’ll enter through the glass-front foyer into a bright main lobby. Box-office staff or ushers check tickets at the door. There are clear corridor signs for the main hall (which is through double doors) and the side function rooms. Staff and volunteers are generally very friendly and helpful (patrons often praise their welcoming service ). Restrooms (male/female and an accessible toilet) are located just off the main lounge/bar area – look for the signs. The drinking fountain and water taps are near the restrooms. A staffed bar is open during events, serving beer, wine and soft drinks (EFTPOS is accepted at the bar) . Outside food/drink is not permitted inside – patrons must buy refreshments on-site or after the show. Coat-check service is typically available for evening performances (especially winter gala shows) – such facilities are often run by event volunteers in the lobby. Mobile phone reception is generally good (the venue isn’t underground) but please silence phones during performances. Free Wi-Fi for the public is not advertised, so assume networks are locked for staff. The atmosphere indoors is casual – you’ll see people in everything from jeans to nice dresses. Most events have no enforced dress code beyond “tidy casual.”
The building is fully air-conditioned and has modern amenities. As part of the renovation, new heat pumps and ventilation were installed , so it’s usually comfortable regardless of season. The stage area itself has professional lighting and sound booths. Merch and event staff often set up stands in the foyer or lounge, and you’ll find event posters or programs on entry. During a show, ushers will talk you to your seat or show where you can stand (for GA events, there will usually be front-floor standing areas). After a performance, the foyer can get crowded with people chatting or queuing for the bar. Plan to walk out promptly if you need to catch a late bus home.
Nearby Amenities
Because it’s centrally located, the Memorial Centre is surrounded by Queenstown’s best eateries and bars. For pre-show meals, consider restaurants a few minutes’ walk away: Brazz Brothers (New Zealand seafood/grill) and Lone Star (American-style grill) on Brecon Street, Botswana Butchery (steaks/fine dining) and Wai (teppanyaki) by the lakefront, or Atlas Beer Cafe and the Queenstown Ale House (pub fare, real ales) . The Cow is an Italian bistro just down Brecon St, and Winnebagos Pizzeria is around the corner on Church St . Many pubs line nearby Brecon, Man and Church Street – Speight’s Ale House, 1876 (British pub), Pig & Whistle and Atlas Brewery are all within 5–6 minutes on foot. If you plan dinner-and-a-show, the Novotel Lakeside (with multiple eateries) and Copthorne Hotel (with the Queenstown Resort Bathhouse and a pizza spot) are a short walk from the centre. There are also late-night options – Lone Star, Brewbar and others stay open until after performances end. For overnight stays, Queenstown has many hotels nearby: Novotel Lakeside, Sofitel Queenstown, Ibis Styles – all are in town and within walking distance, making it easy to return on foot after the show.
What Makes This Venue Special
Unlike purpose-built city theatres, the Queenstown Memorial Centre wears its history on its sleeve. It’s literally Queenstown’s war memorial hall – glass tribute plaques in the foyer list local soldiers who died in WWI and WWII , and the RSA’s Gallipoli Room keeps returned-veteran memorabilia. As such, each Anzac Day and Remembrance Day the centre becomes a focal point for the community. The building’s mid-century architecture (plain brick with a pitched roof) was refreshed in 2013 with a modern foyer and timber-paneled interior, giving it a mix of historic purpose and present-day style . Locals appreciate that it “really can be THE venue” for central Queenstown’s larger gatherings – in fact council marketing materials proudly call it “THE venue in central Queenstown.”
Despite its modest size, many performers and planners love the venue’s friendly vibe and park-side setting. Performers note the audience feels close and the staff are very hospitable . The glass foyer has a view back towards the public recreation ground (and The Remarkables peaks beyond on clear days), so events here have a scenic, village-like backdrop. The nickname “ragged pig’s ear” was cracked about the old hall before renovation, but after the rebuild the atmosphere became more like a polished purse – visitors say it now feels clean, well-maintained and ready for any concert or dinner . In short, the Memorial Centre’s cultural significance (a “living memorial”), its convenient downtown location, and its upgraded sound/lighting systems all come together to make it a lively focal point for Queenstown’s arts and events scene.
Visitor Tips and Information
**Accessibility:** The building is fully wheelchair-accessible. There’s a wheelchair ramp to the stage and level entry through the front doors, and accessible parking and toilets are provided . Reserved handicap seats are available near aisleways. If you have special needs (e.g. hearing loop), contact the venue ahead of time to check accommodations.
**Arrival:** Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before show time. The foyer can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, and doors usually open 30–45 minutes pre-show. Early arrival also eases parking and gives you time to grab a coffee or visit restrooms. (Reviewers note that parking is tight, so any alternate transit is wise .) If you book a dinner event, allow extra time to dine at nearby restaurants.
**What to Bring:** Generally, only small bags or purses are allowed – large backpacks are discouraged (some events may have a formal bag check). Cameras/phones are fine for personal use, but professional still cameras or video gear usually require a permit. Dress is casual. For comfort, bring a sweater or jacket – the hall is air-conditioned and alpine evenings can be cool. If you plan to drink, bring ID for 18+ venues (and mark a meetup spot if in a group). Earplugs can be handy for very loud concerts, though the sound system is well-managed.
**Doors and Policies:** Security scans handbags quickly, and tasers/permitted item lists follow the performing-art norm (no weapons, no outside alcohol/food, etc.). Smoking is only allowed outside (there is a designated smoking area near the entrance). Photos during performances are usually not permitted (ask staff at an intermission). After the show, ushers will help direct traffic when exiting. Keep an eye on exit signs in case of emergency. Most audiences find the environment family-friendly – minor children are welcome at all-ages shows (sometimes at reduced or free rates), but parental discretion is advised for anything rated R or PG-15.
**Miscellany:** There isn’t public Wi-Fi for casual use, so assume you need your own data. The venue is heated, but on a chilly night you may still feel cool in a dress auditorium – bring a light jacket. Able-bodied visitors can easily walk to the waterfront or downtown from here in 5–10 minutes if you want a post-show stroll or picnic. And finally, check the event listing for any additional rules (for instance, some comedy or cabaret shows may have cocktails in the hall and a later end time). In general, patrons love the centre’s friendly atmosphere – many recommend it as “an outstanding event venue” .
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I buy tickets for shows at the Queenstown Memorial Centre?
Tickets are sold by event promoters, usually online through NZ ticketing platforms (such as Eventfinda, Ticketmaster, etc.). The venue itself does not have a permanent public box office (except sometimes on-show-night sales if not sold out). Check the official event announcements for link(s) to purchase, and buy early as popular shows do sell out. The Memorial Centre staff can be contacted for general info via the QLDC phone line (03 450 9111) , but ticket sales are always through the official promoter or website.
Is there a venue box office or can I buy tickets at the door?
There’s no dedicated ticket office open all the time. Tickets are usually sold only through the event promoter’s channels in advance. If an event isn’t sold out, you may sometimes be able to purchase at the door on the night, but this is not guaranteed. It’s safest to buy beforehand online or through the promoter’s outlets.
What are the typical ticket prices at the Memorial Centre?
Prices vary by event. Local productions and small concerts might charge in the $20–$40 range. Larger touring shows (comedy, tribute acts, big music concerts) often have tiered pricing from about $50 up to $70 or more for premium seats . For example, a recent headline comedy show had Gold seats at ~$70 and Silver at ~$60 . Always check the event listing for the exact pricing structure.
What is the address of the Queenstown Memorial Centre?
It’s located at 1 Memorial Street, Queenstown 9300 . This is in central Queenstown, adjacent to the lakeside bike path and a few minutes’ walk from the town center. (Map apps will recognize “Queenstown Memorial Centre” or “Te Whare Raumahara o Tāhuna.”)
What parking options are near the venue?
Street parking on Memorial St is very limited (mostly short-term meters). Better options include paid car parks nearby. For example, Wilson Parking’s Church St car park (entries on Church Street, a block away) charges about $3.50 per half hour . The Man St (Patrick St) covered car park is about $3.50 per 30 minutes (license-plate entry, max ~$42/day) . Both lots are roughly a 3–5 minute walk from the centre. The venue also has a few disabled spots close to the front entrance . Arrive early to secure a space – parking fills up quickly around showtime.
Which buses or ferries stop near the Memorial Centre?
Several Queenstown Orbus routes stop within a short walk. For example, Route 1 (Remarkables Shops–Queenstown/Kelvin) stops at Steamer Wharf (~4 min away) . Routes 4 and 5 (Arrowtown via Jacks Point; Lake Hayes–Queenstown) stop near Stanley Street (Courthouse bus hub, ~6 min walk) . The high-speed ferry (Route 6) docks at Queenstown Bay, about 300 m (5 min walk) from the centre . Buses run early morning through late evening on weekdays and weekends. Check the Orbus timetable for exact times (the first bus can be as early as ~5:50 am and the last around midnight) .
What are the best seats in the auditorium?
The hall has flat-floor seating with a slight rake at the back. In theatre mode, center seats in the middle rows generally offer the clearest sightline and balanced sound. The retractable seats at the back are fine, though they put you farther from the stage. Corner seats may have a very slightly angled view of the stage but are still usable. For general admission/standing events, the front floor area closest to the stage will give the most energy if you don’t mind standing. There are no obstructed-view pillars or balcony levels – every seat has a clear view of the stage.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The Queenstown Memorial Centre is fully wheelchair accessible. Entry is step-free (there are ramps and a flat foyer), and there are wheelchair spaces in the auditorium aisles. Accessible male and female restrooms are provided . The stage has a portable ramp for performer access as well. Accessible parking spaces are located right outside the venue frontage . If you need assistance or have specific access needs, contacting the venue staff in advance is a good idea.
Can I bring food, drinks or cameras inside?
Generally, outside food and non-water beverages are not allowed inside – a staffed licensed bar sells refreshments during events . Cameras are allowed for personal use, but flash photography or professional video requires permission from the event promoter. Large bags may be subject to search or require storage in a check room (available at many ticketed events). Smoking is strictly prohibited indoors (use the designated outdoor area if needed). Always check the specific event guidelines, but as a rule: no outside booze/food, modest bags only, and no disruptive photos during the show.
What amenities are available inside the venue?
The centre offers a range of guest amenities. An AED (defibrillator) and first-aid kit are on-site for emergencies. There is a small coat check area available during larger events. In the lobby and lounge you’ll find display cases with war memorabilia, and the attached function rooms can be used for receptions or meetings. For parents: there is no formal baby-change room, but staff can assist if needed. The venue is heated and air-conditioned (new HVAC installed during renovation ). Most people also note that the staff’s conference catering is top-notch , so do expect at-quality refreshments at events that include a meal.
Is there a coat check or storage available?
Yes, a coat check service is usually provided during larger performances (especially in winter). It’s typically run by event volunteers or staff in the foyer. If in doubt, ask the front-of-house team on arrival – for formal shows they’ll offer to hold your coat or bag. Smaller events may simply have a designated area (like a few racks) for coats. In any case, when busy crowds emerge after a show it’s wise to move to clear any walkway quickly to retrieve coats and leave.
What is the capacity of the Memorial Centre?
The main auditorium seats up to 422 people in theatre-style seating . For standing-room only (cocktail event) it can fit about 500. An alternate banquet/dining setup fits roughly 250 seated guests . Each of the two breakout rooms can seat around 80–130 depending on setup . So overall the facility can host several hundred attendees comfortably.
Are there age or dress code restrictions?
Age and dress policies are event-specific. Most concert and theatre events are all-ages unless stated (if adult themes are present they’ll be rated R or PG-15). Always check the show’s rating (for example, an upcoming comedy might be R15, meaning under-15s aren’t advised) . There is no formal dress code – patrons range from casual (jeans and jackets) to smart-casual evening wear. If your ticket says “Cabaret” or includes dinner, smart-casual is a good bet. No uniforms or costumes are required unless it’s part of a themed event.
What other events does the venue host besides concerts?
Beyond concerts and stand-up, the Memorial Centre is a popular venue for conferences, presentations, and private functions (like weddings or galas) . It’s equipped for exhibitions, team-building workshops and community meetings as well. For example, citizenship ceremonies, business expos and charity balls have been held here. The flexible floor plan (tables or chairs) makes it suitable for almost any event up to ~400 people. Weddings and formal dinners are also common – the view out to the gardens and on-site catering makes it attractive for special occasions.
Why is it called the “Memorial” Centre?
It was built in the 1950s as Queenstown’s WWII memorial hall . Instead of a traditional statue, the hall itself was designated a “living memorial” to honor fallen soldiers. Inside the foyer and outside there are plaques listing the names of locals who died in WWI and WWII . The name “Memorial Centre” (adopted when renovated in 2013) reflects that heritage. So the venue continues to serve as a place of remembrance, with annual ANZAC Day services held on the grounds in front of the building.
Will the Memorial Centre remain open in the future?
The current plan is that the centre will continue operating for several more years, but it is scheduled for eventual replacement. In late 2020 the Council announced that a new arterial road into town will go through this site around 2027 . In the meantime, the venue has received smaller upgrades (LED lighting, fresh paint and floor work) to keep it in good condition . So yes, it will remain open and hosting events in the short term, but the community is aware a new facility or location will be needed in the coming decade.
