Did you know the arts and culture scene in Tāmaki Makaurau is so abundantly diverse that it even attracts ghosts?!
Auckland’s arts facilities, supported by Auckland Council, provide an array of hot spots for culture, and it turns out, some “spirited” regulars who are looking to haunt local theatres, and join in on a bit of drama and live entertainment in Tāmaki Makaurau.
So, with ghost-hunting season upon us, make sure you check out our highly recommended phantom-friendly theatres for your own spooky pleasure.
Ernie’s Playhouse Theatre, Glen Eden
Once a town hall, a cinema and a library – West Auckland’s premiere venue for live theatre and performing arts, the Playhouse Theatre is an epic location among the arts and culture scene, complete with the region’s one and only revolving stage.
Glen Eden’s Playhouse Theatre’s unique façade was built in 1937, which is when it was believed that Ernie, the theatre’s resident ghost, had originally moved in and made it his home when it was a town hall, during World War II. Despite paranormal investigations being inconclusive, stories of Ernie’s presence add a level of mystery and character to the historic building.
Keep an eye out for upcoming events or hire the Playhouse Theatre for your next exclusive event and you might just get to meet Ernie!
Peg’s PumpHouse Theatre, Takapuna
The PumpHouse Theatre is one of Auckland’s most iconic performing arts venues. Previously a water pumping station on the verge of demolition, it was saved by North Shore Theatre & Arts Trust to be converted into a theatre.
Here you’ll meet Peg Escott, the local ghost who lends her own drama to the theatrical space by continuing to keep an eye on things and making a few spooky appearances to unwitting ‘audiences’. Peg was a writer who was well known and respected in the drama world as an adjudicator at drama festivals, a producer, and a founding member of the trust board that helped save the building.
Get acquainted with Peg and check out the jam-packed schedule of shows.
The Civic, Auckland city centre
Auckland’s The Civic theatre is more than just a performance venue — it’s a living piece of the city’s cultural heritage with a grand presence in the heart of the CBD. The landmark building that dates to the 20s, doesn’t just host performances — it elevates them for Aucklanders and tourists, creating unforgettable experiences.
From international film premieres to ballet, opera, and contemporary music, The Civic has long been a stage for both global artistry and local storytelling. Its grandeur and atmosphere, particularly during a full house, creates an electrifying experience.
And what could be more inviting for enthused spirits who once were physically immersed in the arts and culture scene?
Visual and audio recordings undertaken as part of paranormal investigations indicate a residual phenomena, with potentially multiple spirits residing at the popular abode as ‘seat fillers’.
Check out what’s on at The Civic and who else might be lurking behind the scenes.
