The 'Jewel in the
Crown' of Wellington's
flourishing theatre scene

Home » Our venues » St James Theatre

The St James Theatre is the ideal performance space for dance, opera, musicals and cabaret. Providing a unique functions and meetings environment it has also become a thriving events venue since the refurbishment in the late 1990s. On-stage dining adds a touch of theatrical flair to any business event.

Unique features:

  • The St James provides a permanent home for The Royal New Zealand Ballet, offering the best stage for dance in the country - bigger than the Sydney Opera house and even London's West End has only two stages that are larger.
  • The refurbished Auditorium and back of house facility is of an international standard.
  • Front of house boasts an impressive new entrance foyer leading to generous hospitality spaces on the first floor, enhancing the theatre experience for the public, sponsors and patrons.
  • A street level cafe and bar is located in the St James Theatre foyer, adding to the vibrancy of Wellington's Courtenay Place theatre precinct.
  • Dining on stage has proved to be a popular choice for many looking for that 'wow' factor.
  • The St James Theatre comfortably seats 1550, has space for a cocktail function of 500 and hospitality areas for banquets of up to 400.

Are you attending an event in this venue? View seating plans, information about ticketing, venue location, parking and directions.

Ever wanted to know what it is like to tread the boards? Well now you can! Taste the magic of the theatre by holding your next event on the stage. Product launches, dinner dances, presentations, cocktail receptions and training seminars have all taken centre stage, literally.
Located on the first floor, this space has played host to some of the most prestigious and imaginative events. Glittering award ceremonies, dinner dances, art exhibitions, product launches, wine tastings, interactive theatresports, cocktail receptions and AGMs.
With its high stud and natural daylight, the Hospitality Suite is a perfect venue for your company to enjoy throughout the day... breakfast meetings, business lunch presentations, 'After 5' cocktail receptions or client entertaining.

Fine art. Fine venue.

Venues Wellington is proud to manage the gallery function space 'Academy Galleries'.


Free wi-fi

Keep your finger on the pulse during an event - we offer free access to wireless internet for delegates in our conference venues (Shed 6, TSB Bank Arena, St James Theatre and the Michael Fowler Centre).

Contact our sales team on 04 801 4207 for more information.


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