Hollywood Cinema

Built in 1915, this neo-classical building has had a fascinating history and is the earliest example of cinema in Auckland (there was an earlier building used for movies which was moved next door and remains there to this day). Beginning life as the “Avondale Town Hall”, it has screened movies since day one. From silent movies to today’s digital projection we’ve screened them all.

From 1930 – 1946 we were known as Hayward’s Town Hall Pictures and the cinema was run by the Hayward family who were part of the famous Fuller-Haywards theatre circuit. When Fuller-Haywards was sold to the newly formed Kerridge-Odeon Theatres Ltd in 1946, a second generation of Hayward’s decided to form a new company called Auckland Cinemas Ltd and take over the running of some of the suburban Auckland venues. Included in a circuit of five cinemas was Hayward’s Town Hall Pictures (re-named “The Grosvenor Theatre”).

In 1966 a young man with a big dream took over the running of the cinema (re-naming it yet again to “The Hollywood Cinema”). His name was Jan Grefstad and he was to make the Hollywood his life for the next thirty six years.

Most famous for running “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” every Friday and Saturday night at 11.30pm from 1978 – 1988, we are also well known for Saturday Matinees, Sunday Late Shows, Nostalgic Movies and Wurlitzer Organ Recitals.

We cater for private screenings, functions and are open almost every night of the week.

If you believe in supporting New Zealand business, please support us, as we are one of the very few cinemas in Auckland that is totally locally owned and operated.

Hope to see you at the Hollywood soon.