The PumpHouse Theatre
Nestled on the shores of Lake Pupuke in Takapuna, Auckland, The PumpHouse Theatre is a cherished cultural landmark with a rich and intriguing history. Originally constructed in 1905 as a water pumping station supplying fresh water to the North Shore, the building served the community until 1941, after which it fell into disrepair. In the late 1960s, local residents rallied to save the structure from demolition, leading to its transformation into a performing arts venue, officially opening as a theatre in 1977. In recognition of its historical significance, it was designated a Category II Historic Building by the New Zealand Historic Places Trust in 1983.
Beyond its architectural and cultural importance, The PumpHouse Theatre is reputed to have a spectral resident. Cicely Margaret (Peg) Escott, a founding member of the theatre's trust board and a passionate advocate for the arts, is believed by some to linger in the building. Visitors and staff have reported unexplained phenomena such as feelings of being watched, missing props that reappear inexplicably, and glimpses of a figure in the stage wings. These occurrences have led to the theatre being a site for paranormal investigations and ghost hunts, adding an element of mystery to its storied past.
Today, The PumpHouse Theatre continues to be a vibrant hub for the performing arts, offering a diverse array of theatrical performances, creative talks, and community events, all while embracing its unique heritage and the tales that make it a distinctive venue.
2A Manurere Avenue
Takapuna
Auckland 0622
+64 9 486 2386
Beyond its architectural and cultural importance, The PumpHouse Theatre is reputed to have a spectral resident. Cicely Margaret (Peg) Escott, a founding member of the theatre's trust board and a passionate advocate for the arts, is believed by some to linger in the building. Visitors and staff have reported unexplained phenomena such as feelings of being watched, missing props that reappear inexplicably, and glimpses of a figure in the stage wings. These occurrences have led to the theatre being a site for paranormal investigations and ghost hunts, adding an element of mystery to its storied past.
Today, The PumpHouse Theatre continues to be a vibrant hub for the performing arts, offering a diverse array of theatrical performances, creative talks, and community events, all while embracing its unique heritage and the tales that make it a distinctive venue.
2A Manurere Avenue
Takapuna
Auckland 0622
+64 9 486 2386
