Little Theatre

Welcome to Little Theatre, located in Whakatāne, New Zealand. Our institution is nestled within the Whakatāne District War Memorial Hall, a beloved community facility situated at Rex Morpeth Park on 7 Short Street. This iconic complex offers a range of cultural and sporting amenities to numerous organizations in the district.

Originally opened in 1978 by the Governor-General, the Centre was built around and over the preexisting War Memorial Hall, preserving its historical significance. The original main entrance, plaques, and honours scrolls have been beautifully maintained, paying homage to the past.

Within this remarkable establishment, you will find the Little Theatre, a captivating venue that boasts a seating capacity of over 270 people. This versatile space is perfect for recitals, conferences, seminars, and theatrical productions. To ensure inclusivity, a loop system is installed in the first four rows for the hearing impaired. Adjacent to the theatre, there is a spacious rehearsal room, providing ample space for performers to perfect their craft.

As you step into our large, carpeted entrance foyer, you will be greeted by our bar and ticketing facilities. This area can also be utilized as a separate function room when the entire complex is hired. Just beyond the foyer, separated by sliding soundproof doors, lies the carpeted reception lounge. Equipped with a bar, kitchen facilities, and a parquet dance floor, this elegant space is ideal for receptions, meetings, and conferences.

The Whakatāne War Memorial Hall also encompasses a sports stadium, featuring two full-sized basketball courts. This versatile space is frequently utilized for a range of indoor sports such as badminton and volleyball. Additionally, the stadium plays host to large concerts, functions, and commercial and cultural exhibitions.

While visiting Little Theatre, take the opportunity to explore the surrounding area. Whakatāne offers a wealth of attractions, including the Whakatāne Museum and Arts, Whakatāne Holiday Park, Bay of Plenty Civil Defence, and the Bay of Plenty Regional Council.

At Whakatāne District Council, we are committed to providing a wide range of services to our residents and ratepayers. Our vision is to be known as the place of choice for people to live, work, and play. We strive to achieve this through our dedicated team, innovative initiatives, impactful projects, and effective governance.

We value your feedback and encourage you to reach out to us with any inquiries or general comments. If you come across any issues in your neighborhood, please let us know so we can promptly address them. We are also open to receiving complaints regarding our standard of service or any other matters of concern.

Come and experience the magic of Little Theatre within the Whakatāne District War Memorial Hall. Join us for unforgettable performances, engaging conferences, and memorable events. We look forward to welcoming you to our institution and creating lasting memories together.