The Pumphouse Theatre Auckland
A charming theatre by Lake Pupuke, offering diverse live performances in an intimate setting. Enjoy art and nature combined.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Enjoy live shows and lakeside ambiance
The Pumphouse Theatre Auckland
Best Time
Enjoy live shows and lakeside ambiance

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming theatre by Lake Pupuke, offering diverse live performances in an intimate setting. Enjoy art and nature combined.
"The venue was gorgeous, the show was great, and overall it was just a lovely atmosphere!"
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Popular shows sell out fast! Book your tickets in advance via the Pumphouse website.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Theatre car parks fill up. Aim to arrive early for best parking or use nearby street options.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Live Theatre Performances
Main Auditorium
Experience a diverse range of plays, musicals, and concerts in an intimate and charming setting.

Lake Pupuke Views
Lakeside
Enjoy the picturesque setting by Lake Pupuke, perfect for a pre-show stroll or picnic.

Waimahara Sculpture
Myers Park (near the theatre)
Discover this significant Māori artwork celebrating ancient waters beneath the city.
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Popular Shows
Arrive Early for Parking & Ambiance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Popular shows sell out fast! Book your tickets in advance via the Pumphouse website.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Theatre car parks fill up. Aim to arrive early for best parking or use nearby street options.
☕ Enjoy the Lakeside
The theatre is by Lake Pupuke. Relax by the water before or after your show.
🎶 Check Show Schedule
From musicals to plays, see what's on at The Pumphouse Theatre Takapuna.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Popular shows sell out fast! Book your tickets in advance via the Pumphouse website.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Theatre car parks fill up. Aim to arrive early for best parking or use nearby street options.
☕ Enjoy the Lakeside
The theatre is by Lake Pupuke. Relax by the water before or after your show.
🎶 Check Show Schedule
From musicals to plays, see what's on at The Pumphouse Theatre Takapuna.
✨ Intimate Venue
The cosy, stepped seating ensures great views from most spots.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Pumphouse Theatre for its charming, intimate atmosphere and beautiful lakeside location. The quality of performances, friendly staff, and easy ticketing process are frequently highlighted. While parking can be tight, the overall experience is highly recommended for a delightful night out.
"Came to the Pumphouse Theatre to see an Agatha Christie play, great venue loved the set up and the seating. Lights over the lake across from the theatre made it a cute night outing.
Plenty of parking at the venue itself and on the road a few minutes walk away."
Wannachai Burke
"There is plenty of parking if you get there early. But there is also more parking 5min walk down to the venue. Staff was friendly. The show was amazing! The lighting and the sound were perfect."
Claudia Moreira
"My mom and I were in Auckland for a few days and wanted to go see a play and we ended up getting tickets to White Men.
The venue was gorgeous, the show was great, and overall it was just a lovely atmosphere!
If either of us ever go back to Auckland, we will definitely be looking to see another show here! Highly recommend!"
Gabriella Racano
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Pumphouse Theatre is located in Takapuna, Auckland. You can drive and utilize the theatre's car parks or nearby street parking. Public transport options are also available; check Auckland Transport for bus routes serving the Takapuna area.
Yes, there are two car parks accessible from Killarney Street. One leads directly to the theatre, and the other is slightly higher up with ample space. Arriving early is advised, especially for popular shows.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk from Takapuna centre to The Pumphouse Theatre, especially if you take a route that passes by Lake Pupuke. It's about a 5-10 minute walk from the main Takapuna shops.
For evening shows, driving and parking is common. Alternatively, consider ride-sharing services or checking bus schedules if you prefer not to drive. The lakeside location makes it a scenic destination.
Yes, The Pumphouse Theatre is accessible by public transport. Several bus routes service the Takapuna area, with stops a short walk from the theatre. It's advisable to check the Auckland Transport website for the most current route information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can be purchased online through The Pumphouse Theatre's official website. Some shows may also have tickets available at the door, but booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular performances.
The theatre's opening hours are generally tied to performance schedules. Doors typically open about 30 minutes before showtime. It's best to check the specific show's details on their website for exact timings.
Discounts may vary depending on the show and the presenting company. Some performances might offer concessions for students, seniors, or groups. Check the individual show listings on the Pumphouse website for any available discount information.
While it's sometimes possible to purchase tickets on the day of the show, it's not guaranteed, especially for sold-out performances. To avoid disappointment, it's strongly advised to book your tickets in advance online.
Refund policies are typically set by the individual show's promoter. Generally, tickets are non-refundable unless a performance is cancelled. It's best to review the specific terms and conditions when purchasing your tickets or contact the theatre directly for clarification.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
The Pumphouse Theatre hosts a diverse program including musicals, plays, comedy, children's theatre, and live music. They often feature productions by local theatre groups and touring shows.
Yes, The Pumphouse Theatre is a great venue for live music, offering an intimate setting for various genres, including Latin jazz and orchestral performances. The acoustics are generally well-regarded.
The theatre is described as cosy and intimate, with stepped seating that generally provides good sightlines over the person in front. This setup enhances the viewing experience for most audience members.
Yes, there is often merchandise and sometimes refreshments available for purchase before the show. It's a good idea to check the specific show's details for what will be offered.
The atmosphere is often described as lovely and charming, enhanced by its beautiful lakeside location. It offers a relaxed and enjoyable experience, whether you're there for a play or just to enjoy the view.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography and videography are not permitted during live performances at The Pumphouse Theatre to avoid disturbing the performers and other audience members. Always check with the venue staff or signage for specific policies.
The area around Lake Pupuke offers beautiful photo opportunities, especially with the theatre in the foreground or the lake and parkland as a backdrop. The Waimahara sculpture in Myers Park is also a unique subject.
Yes, the exterior of The Pumphouse Theatre, particularly with the backdrop of Lake Pupuke, makes for lovely photographs. Consider visiting during golden hour for softer lighting.
Photography in the lobby and common areas is usually permitted, but it's always best to be mindful of other patrons and staff. Avoid intrusive photography, especially if there are private events or rehearsals happening.
During performances, the lighting is focused on the stage. For general photography around the venue, natural light by the lake is excellent. The theatre's interior lighting is typically ambient and suited for the performance atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider arriving a bit early to let kids explore the lakeside area before the show. The relaxed atmosphere by Lake Pupuke can be a great way to build excitement. Always check the specific show's suitability for different age groups when booking tickets.
🎶 Music Lovers
Check their schedule regularly for upcoming concerts. The acoustics in the theatre are generally well-regarded, making it a good choice for enjoying live music in a comfortable environment.
🎭 Theatre Aficionados
Its location by Lake Pupuke also adds to the charm, providing a lovely setting for a night out. The ease of booking and friendly staff contribute to a hassle-free visit for those who regularly attend shows.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Pumphouse Theatre: A Community Hub
This venue frequently hosts a variety of shows, from professional productions to local amateur theatre and youth performances. It's a platform for emerging talent and a place where the community can come together to enjoy diverse forms of entertainment. The theatre's commitment to showcasing a wide range of performances ensures there's something for everyone, from classic plays to contemporary musicals and live music.
Beyond the stage, the surrounding grounds by Lake Pupuke provide a tranquil escape. Visitors often enjoy the opportunity to relax by the water, have a picnic, or take a leisurely stroll before or after a show, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to their visit. The combination of artistic programming and its scenic location makes The Pumphouse Theatre a beloved Auckland destination.
Navigating Performances and Tickets
It's crucial to book tickets in advance, especially for popular shows or limited runs, as they can sell out quickly. The online booking system is generally user-friendly, allowing you to select your seats and complete your purchase with ease. While some tickets might be available at the door, relying on this can be risky.
When planning your visit, consider the performance times. Evening shows are common, and arriving about 30 minutes prior to the start time is usually recommended. This allows ample time for parking, finding your seat, and perhaps grabbing a pre-show drink or snack.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit