An exceptional new chapter for Central Otago’s arts, culture and hospitality scene is about to begin with the 18 July opening of Te Puna Mahara - Cromwell Memorial Events Centre, a stunning new lakeside destination on the shores of the Kawarau River.
The landmark facility features a 400-seat theatre, meeting and conference facilities, an intimate 40-seat cinema, museum, dance studio, café and bar, alongside a range of vibrant community and creative spaces designed to inspire connection and celebration.
Adding to the excitement surrounding the venue’s opening is the announcement of the hospitality and entertainment operators who will help bring the facility to life seven days a week.
THE CINEMA at Te Puna Mahara promises a premium movie-going experience for the Cromwell community and wider region. Operated by experienced cinema and entertainment professionals, THE CINEMA features state-of-the-art laser projection and immersive 7.1 Dolby surround sound, delivering stunning picture clarity and powerful audio for every session. Audiences can expect a carefully curated programme of new releases, special screenings and community-focused events.
The venue’s public hospitality offering will be led by AWA Cafe | Bar | Eatery, a locally owned café and bar inspired by the rivers and waterways of Central Otago. Overlooking the Kawarau River, AWA has been designed as a welcoming community gathering place offering specialty coffee, local wines and a relaxed all-day menu.
“We are absolutely thrilled to be part of Te Puna Mahara, truly the heart of Cromwell,” says experienced local hospitality operators Enrique Ortiz and Fernanda Berroeta.
“AWA has been built with so much love, and we cannot wait to open our doors and be part of this incredible journey together.”
Event catering operations for the venue are in discussions and are expected to be confirmed in the coming weeks.
Following an extensive Registration of Interest process undertaken by Council to identify operators for the venue’s hospitality and entertainment offerings, proposals were received from local, national and international parties interested in operating one or more of the venue spaces. Of the eight submissions received, three were from local operators and five from further afield. Following assessment by both the Cromwell Community Board and Central Otago District Council, experienced local operators were selected to help shape the future of Te Puna Mahara and deliver high-quality experiences for both residents and visitors, reinforcing a strong commitment to supporting local business and expertise.
Cromwell Community Board Chair Anna Harrison says securing experienced, high-quality operators was an important step in ensuring the long-term success of the venue.
“To have such proven operators joining Te Puna Mahara is incredibly exciting for Cromwell and the wider region,” she says.
“Together with Te Huika Wai - Cromwell Museum and the wider Te Puna Mahara offering, these businesses will help create a vibrant destination our community can be proud of for generations to come.”
Te Puna Mahara - Cromwell Memorial Events Centre will officially open on 18 July, with Expressions of Interest now being sought from local artisans, creatives and makers looking to stock products within the venue’s retail store. To request an expression of interest form, please email cromwell.bookings@codc.govt.nz.
