The Vic Theatre
Victoria Theatre Devonport – Auckland’s Oldest Cinema and Haunted Heritage Landmark
The Victoria Theatre in Devonport, Auckland, is a treasured heritage building and cultural icon. First opened in 1912, it is recognised as New Zealand’s oldest purpose-built cinema and the longest continuously operating movie theatre in the Southern Hemisphere. Originally built to showcase silent films, the theatre quickly became a focal point for arts, culture, and entertainment on Auckland’s North Shore. Over the decades, the Victoria Theatre Devonport has adapted to changing times, screening talkies, hosting live performances, and surviving fires and refurbishments. A major restoration in 2010 revitalised the theatre, blending its Edwardian architecture with modern cinema technology, ensuring that it remains a beloved destination for movies, events, and cultural performances.
Beyond its rich heritage and history, the Victoria Theatre is also famous as one of Auckland’s most intriguing haunted locations. Investigated by Paranormal New Zealand (Haunted Auckland), the theatre is said to be home to unexplained phenomena. Staff and visitors often report cold spots, strange noises, and the sensation of being watched, particularly in the upstairs projection room. The most well-known spirit is thought to be “Ethel”, a former projectionist who allegedly died while working in the theatre. Many believe her ghost still lingers, keeping a watchful presence over the cinema and occasionally making herself known during quiet moments or late screenings.
Today, the Victoria Theatre Devonport Auckland offers much more than a trip to the movies. It is a living piece of New Zealand cinema history, a vibrant hub for film, live performance, and community culture, and an enduring haunted heritage site.
Whether you come to enjoy the latest film, explore its heritage architecture, or experience its paranormal atmosphere, the Victoria Theatre promises an unforgettable visit.
The Victoria Theatre in Devonport, Auckland, is a treasured heritage building and cultural icon. First opened in 1912, it is recognised as New Zealand’s oldest purpose-built cinema and the longest continuously operating movie theatre in the Southern Hemisphere. Originally built to showcase silent films, the theatre quickly became a focal point for arts, culture, and entertainment on Auckland’s North Shore. Over the decades, the Victoria Theatre Devonport has adapted to changing times, screening talkies, hosting live performances, and surviving fires and refurbishments. A major restoration in 2010 revitalised the theatre, blending its Edwardian architecture with modern cinema technology, ensuring that it remains a beloved destination for movies, events, and cultural performances.
Beyond its rich heritage and history, the Victoria Theatre is also famous as one of Auckland’s most intriguing haunted locations. Investigated by Paranormal New Zealand (Haunted Auckland), the theatre is said to be home to unexplained phenomena. Staff and visitors often report cold spots, strange noises, and the sensation of being watched, particularly in the upstairs projection room. The most well-known spirit is thought to be “Ethel”, a former projectionist who allegedly died while working in the theatre. Many believe her ghost still lingers, keeping a watchful presence over the cinema and occasionally making herself known during quiet moments or late screenings.
Today, the Victoria Theatre Devonport Auckland offers much more than a trip to the movies. It is a living piece of New Zealand cinema history, a vibrant hub for film, live performance, and community culture, and an enduring haunted heritage site.
Whether you come to enjoy the latest film, explore its heritage architecture, or experience its paranormal atmosphere, the Victoria Theatre promises an unforgettable visit.