WellingtonNZ.com,
New Zealand 

The Embassy Theatre is New Zealand’s grandest picture palace and was fully refurbished inside and out just in time for the 2003 world premiere of The Lord of the Rings – The Return of the King.   Since then the screen has hosted the Australasian premieres of Peter Jackson’s King Kong and The Lovely Bones, among many of Wellington’s finest film and arts festivals.

Built in 1924, The Embassy is an iconic Wellington landmark situated at the head of New Zealand’s famous entertainment precinct – Courtenay Place – drawing people from throughout the region and beyond to see all the latest movies in a real cinema environment that is lost in the modern multiplexes.

The Embassy was fortunate to not succumb to the demolition ball like most other picture palaces and has retained many fine features such as its marbled staircases, wrought iron handrails, original tiled foyers and exquisite plastered ceilings despite many upgrades over the decades. With this to build on, the refurbishment included a new; giant cinemascope screen and state-of-the-art sound system, luxury seating, stylish environs and a restoration that is faithful to its origins of the last century yet sympathetic to the new millennium, making this the ultimate cinema experience.

December 2011 marked another event in the Embassy’s history with the opening of two new boutique cinemas and lounge bar in the space created by the 2003 refurbishment. This area was home to original orchestra pit used in the 1920’s and 30’s when playing silent films. The two new cinemas house 70 seats each and are named deLuxe after the original name of the building.  The lounge-bar fits in with the opulence of The Embassy Theatre while adding a modern twist – incorporating a new fit-out with classic elements retained of the historical Embassy – definitely a space to check out and enjoy a New Zealand wine, cocktail or a warm cup of coffee next to the fireplace on a winter’s day.

Living up to its reputation as being more than just a cinema, within its stylish foyers and new lounge bar, the Embassy also houses Blondini’s Café & Bar on the upper level which is both special and unique as it overlooks the nightlife of Courtenay Place, and is a great place to sit and watch the world go by.  Blondini’s Bar and Cafe is also equipped with Wi-Fi for those wanting to catch up with their social networking or business while enjoying a coffee or fine wine from the bar.

Movies play every day through the year, from the latest 3D blockbuster, art-house wonder and those in between.  For session times visit www.embassytheatre.co.nz

Two new contemporary style theatres are now open, as well as an intimate cafe and bar area.