The 15-year quest to save the St James Theatre looks to be finally getting traction.

Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage Carmel Sepuloni today announced the government is pledging $15 million to support the restoration and revival of what has long been a cornerstone of Tāmaki Makaurau's creative scene.

The investment is conditional on Auckland Council matching that mark, which Mayor Wayne Brown has committed to on the provision that work begins before 1 June 2024.

Listed as a Category 1 building by Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, the St James Theatre has national significance and remains one of Auckland's most loved creative sites.

Sepuloni states “After being closed for the last 15 years, our Government’s contribution towards the preservation of the St James Theatre will sit alongside funding from the Auckland Council and the owner to support its restoration so that it can reopen for the wider public to enjoy again – concert experiences, stately décor and all.

“Successive Governments have signalled their support for the project, but I’m pleased that we’re able to finally get this contribution across the line, to help save this important piece of cultural and national heritage.

“We’ll now be engaging with the strong community around the Theatre, including Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga and mana whenua, to develop funding conditions around the Government’s investment."

The battle to restore the St James has been a long and frustrating campaign for those dedicated to the cause - with Auckland Central MP Chlöe Swarbrick among the most vocal advocates of returning the venue to its former glory, including a heart-breaking video inside the damaged building last year.

St James Theatre owner Steve Bielby states "I am feeling a combination of relief, joy and gratitude to those who have stood up for the future of this beautiful and important theatre that symbolises the enduring importance of arts and culture in Aotearoa NZ.  

"This funding enables us to save the St James Theatre, which has been our determined focus for 13 years. This funding will cover critical foundational and strengthening work so we can save and prepare the building for the next 100 years. We expect these essential works to take 2 years. 

"I acknowledge the Hon Carmel Sepuloni, Chlöe Swarbrick, Manatū Ministry for Culture and Heritage; Auckland Council; mana whenua Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, Save the St James, Heritage New Zealand, Save our Venues and all who have campaigned to save the St James Theatre."   

Sepuloni adds “I want to acknowledge the longstanding support the Theatre has had and the various ongoing campaigns to preserve the St James. It proves that communities across Aotearoa New Zealand value this taonga of live performance and cultural heritage and are eager to see it saved.

“It goes without saying, Auckland has been through a lot in recent times, but I hope that our Government’s support towards the St James as part of the arts precinct will help keep the heartbeat of the city centre alive."

The balance of the cost of the renovation will be the responsibility of the Theatre’s owners, who have already made significant investments towards the conservation of the building. The central government funding will be provided from the Emerging Priorities Fund.

Final decisions on whether the owners have met agreed funding conditions will be made by delegated ministers - the Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage, the Associate Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage and the Minister of Finance.