The Best Movie Theaters in Auckland

Turns out that reports of the death of movie theaters in the internet age were grossly exaggerated. Going to the movies is an experience that can't be easily replicated at home, even on a big flat screen, and some movies really are best seen on the big screen with surround sound and a tub of popcorn.

If you love going to the movies then these are Auckland's best movie theaters. We've picked the best from all over Auckland, but if you are a real movie buff then you'll want to try all of them at some point…

Silky Otter Cinema

Silky Otter Cinema is a new theater that offers a unique and modern viewing experience. They promise to change the way that you enjoy movies and redefine the cinema experience. This luxury theater has leather recliners and world-class big screens. Their two cinemas provide state of the art laser projection and full 7.1 surround sound.

On Mondays, all movies are $15 and include bottomless popcorn. The menu offers mini pizzas, ice cream, small bites, sides, desserts, and popcorn. They serve hot and cold beverages, beer, wine, and assorted cocktails. The staff delivers your orders right to your seat.

This is my business

Highlights:

• Modern viewing experience
• Luxury leather recliners
• 7.1 surround sound
• Delicious food and drinks

Once you've experienced Silky Otter you won't want to go anywhere else. So good.

Charlie

The Vic

The Vic is a vintage theater with a long history located in the seaside village of Devonport. It shows an eclectic mixture of big box office hits, alternative films, live performances, and special events. Its four old-style cinemas have comfy seats throughout and double seats in the back. The Victoria Theater Trust, formed in 2004, has helped to restore and renovate the theater.

The Vic offers membership specials, cheap Tuesdays, and partnership opportunities. Their screenings of The Rocky Horror Picture Show, accompanied by a live performance from Hot & Flustered, are a huge draw. They serve wine and cheese, waffle ice cream, snacks, fresh gelato, and drinks.

This is my business

Highlights:

• Vintage cinema
• Rich history
• Great ice cream
• Friendly service

Beautiful historic local cinema with a good choice of snacks and wine.

Christopher

The Magnificent Matakana Theater

Located in the heart of Matakana Village, this boutique theater houses three cinemas, each with a unique theme and décor. The ceilings, adorned with chandeliers, are works of art in themselves. This artsy setting provides the perfect backdrop for the films. Excellent sound quality, large screens, and lazy-boy recliners in the front row are sure to make this a great viewing experience.

You can book your tickets online, and the prices are very reasonable. The cinema seeks to enliven local culture by delivering an enthralling cinematic experience. The venue is available for fundraisers and for private hire.

This is my business

Highlights:

• Quirky décor
• Great viewing experience
• Comfortable seating
• Good prices

Great staff, excellent choice of films and you can take your wine in from the restaurant.

Jo

Rialto Cinemas

Rialto Cinemas show a mix of arthouse films and screenings of operas, plays, and art exhibitions. They also host films for the New Zealand International Film Festival and other film festivals. The cinemas are small and intimate with comfortable seating and wooden side tables for drinks and snacks. The bar and café are comfortable and well-designed.

Special events and deals include cheap Tuesdays for Cinebuzz members, Golden Oldies, Baby & Me, and Date Nights (voucher deal). The menu includes small plates, Kapiti ice cream and sorbet, and a good selection of wines that you can bring in the theater.

This is my business

Highlights:

• Intimate boutique cinema
• Variety of movies and special events
• Special deals
• Newly renovated

Great staff & always welcoming & friendly, ready for a chat.

Raewyn

Bridgeway Cinemas

Opened in 1927, the Bridgeway theater is one of Auckland’s best and most vibrant arthouse cinemas. It plays new release arthouse films, upmarket commercial releases, and hosts film events and festivals. There are four screens including one 18-seat boutique cinema. All the cinemas are wheelchair accessible, and all but one provide assistive listening devices.

The theater has undergone several name changes over the years before it became the Bridgeway in 1959. Special events offered include Girls Night Out and Babies on Board.

This is my business

Highlights:

• Rich history
• Arthouse films
• 18-seat boutique cinema
• Wheelchair accessible

Have always loved this theatre. Such a great location, friendly staff, the most delicious fruit cake and coffee, and fabulous art house movies.

Halina

Lido Cinema

Lido Cinema's small and intimate atmosphere provides a welcome change from the experience of large chains. It screens interesting films in three arthouse cinemas which were all refurbished in 2020. It caters to adults and specializes in English movies. The seating is generous with lazy-boy seats that recline in the front row. The adjacent lounge with its comfy couches and open fire is a nice place to relax.

The cinema offers fundraising movie nights, loyalty cards, and pre-booking (with no booking fees for online bookings!). They serve wine, coffee, ice cream, snacks, and popcorn that you can bring into the cinema.

This is my business

Highlights:

• Small boutique theater
• Interesting films
• Comfortable seating
• Relaxing atmosphere
• 7.1 surround sound

Just so enjoyable always going to the Lido..a little luxury.

Glen

The Capitol Cinema

The Capital Cinema is one of Auckland’s best arthouse cinemas. They show a wide range of films from new release arthouse films to upmarket commercial releases. Entering this boutique cinema is like taking a step back into the past. After climbing a set of creaking stairs, you will reach the charming, old-style lobby. A few more steps up take you to the theater where you will find a warm, plush, and comfortable environment.

Special events and features include I Love Anime and the Tarantino collection. They offer wine, coffee, and ice cream with great service and a pleasant atmosphere.

This is my business

Highlights:

• Iconic arthouse cinema
• Great selection of films
• Warm environment
• Old-style charm

Amazing! I booked my holiday programme trip and the service was the best I've ever had. Booking was super easy, fast response through email, great communication and staff so friendly when we arrived. Highly recommend!

Lily

Monterey Lounge Cinema, Takapuna

The Monterey Lounge Cinema is a charming boutique theater. It shows a variety of films ranging from blockbusters and kids' films to independent films and classics. It also broadcasts world-class theater, opera, and exhibitions. The seating is comfortable and well-spaced. The volume is reasonable which makes it great for small children. The refurbished foyer and bar areas are perfect for grabbing a drink with friends.

Special events are the Monterey Morning Tea, which includes a movie, coffee, and a cookie for $15. At Girls Night Out, you can get a ticket and a drink for $19. They serve pizza, ice cream, specialty platters, a plant-based menu, wine, beer, cocktails, and snacks that you can take into the theater.

This is my business

Highlights:

• Intimate and cozy
• Wide range of movies
• Kid-friendly
• Special events

Great atmosphere. Awesome staff and good prices. Keep up the good work guys.

Roberto