Tucked beside the sparkling waters of Pupukemoana, right in the heart of Killarney Park, sits one of Tāmaki Makaurau’s most delightfully unexpected venues: The PumpHouse Theatre, Te Whare Tapere i te Taha o Pupukemoana.

At first glance, it’s a charming, extremely photogenic brick building. But once you’re a little closer, you’ll discover a space bursting with history, creativity, and super unique performance spaces.

Originally built in 1905 as a water pumping station, The PumpHouse has lived many lives. After falling into disrepair, it was rescued in the late 1960s by a passionate group of locals who refused to let it disappear. And thank goodness for them! Today, it stands as a Category II heritage building and a thriving, not-for-profit, popular theatre.

Inside, you’ll find our Genevieve Becroft Auditorium, and the most cozy, vibey backstage spaces ready to create your theatre memories. And, outside (perhaps the crown jewel!) a dreamy outdoor amphitheatre! It has been used for theatre, festivals, music events, sing-alongs, but it truly comes alive in summer with Shakespeare under the stars! For the more adventurous creatives, it’s also used in the colder months for beautiful Matariki shows and events, and more.

And then there’s the vibe. There’s something about performing (or watching a show) in a building that has quite literally been transformed by community love. It’s warm, welcoming, a little bit quirky. And yessss, the rumours are true, we have a resident ghost, Peg, keeping an eye on things.

Our incredible team are here to support you across tech, box office, marketing, ticketing, health and safety, and all the bits in between. 

So if you’re dreaming up your next show or event, why not come join the whānau at The PumpHouse for our 2027 season – expressions of interest open soon!

BONUS: 2027 is our 50th anniversary of being a theatre, what a treat to join us!