Council gives $9.6m to theatre

Auckland City Council has confirmed its contribution of $9.6 million towards the Q Theatre.

The council has also committed the land and existing buildings to the project, plus operational support of up to $400,000 per year for five years.

Auckland mayor John Banks said the theatre was an asset that would help enliven the arts for all Aucklanders to experience.

"This project has been more than 10-years in the making. It's really very rewarding to see it close to fruition."

The estimated cost for the new theatre is $21 million. Q Theatre has raised $5.1 million including a grant from ASB Community Trust, and has also received $6 million from the Lottery Significant Projects Fund. The council's contribution will be committed when the final tender has been confirmed.