Village movie theatre proves popular

 

BY JULIA WADE

Six months after raising its red curtain, Mangawhai’s first movie theatre continues to be a popular destination through all the seasons, especially in recent weeks since winter has made a starring role.  

Organised and run by Mangawhai Historic Village Trust (MHV) – formerly Mangawhai Pioneer Village – Mangawhai’s first Anglican Church turned-movie theatre offers a range of latest releases from multiple genres to suit film buffs of all ages, and trustee John Phillis says the facility has been ‘well appreciated’. 

“We’ve received a great response from the community which has been very encouraging and has highlighted the need of this facility in the area… it was a long time coming.”

Phillis says screening times on Thursdays have been altered to cater for movies goers who prefer to not venture out on cold nights, with films being shown at the warmer afternoon times of 2pm instead of 7pm. 

With school holidays beginning this week, a children’s matinee time on three consecutive Sundays at 1pm is also on offer, with screenings of ‘Sgt Stubby: An American Hero’ and ‘Dumbo’ which will show twice. The theatre is also beginning classic theme nights where patrons can dress-up and win prizes, starting with a good ol’ western ‘The Good, the Bad and the Ugly’ on July 20. 

“We could also have a thriller night, horror, romance – I’ll especially look forward to a comedy night,” Phillis says. “It’s a chance to relive and reminisce the great classics of our time.” 

The hall also makes an ideal venue for various events including exercise classes, exhibitions, brain-storm sessions, presentations, seminars and weddings. Visitors to the village will be relieved to know Kaipara District Council have also agreed to install a toilet block by the end of the year, which will replace the current port-a-loo.