Elizabeth Street Community & Arts Centre

Elizabeth Street Community & Arts Centre is a flexible, affordable hire venue at 169 Elizabeth Street in central Tauranga. It is operated by Bay Venues, a Tauranga City Council organisation, and functions as a hub of community activity with a versatile layout that suits groups and events of varying sizes.

Spaces and capacity

The centre has two large spaces, which can be hired together or separately, with a listed total capacity of 360.

• The first space has a modern carpeted upper section and a concrete lower section with a wooden stage, divided by an internal wall of windows and linked by a ramp. It sits next to the kitchen.
• The second space has a wooden floor with carpeted outer edges — the wooden floor suits all dance styles, while the carpet perimeter allows chairs for spectators. It has its own small raised stage.

Both rooms have their own entry points with unlocked access between them, and each has its own bathroom facilities. The venue lists two meeting rooms, two recessed stages, 15 tables and 100 chairs.

Facilities

• Kitchen: one kitchen, usable by either room, equipped with a zip, stove top oven, microwave and fridge — geared to self-catering or a brought-in caterer.
• AV: projector and projector screen available by arrangement.
• Comfort and access: air conditioning, heating, accessible toilets, wheelchair access and a wheelchair-accessible car park and entrance.
• Alcohol: BYO options available by arrangement.
• Bookings: an unstaffed facility hired by arrangement through the Bay Venues bookings team on 07 577 8580. A bond is required for all hire.

What it suits

The two-room configuration with independent entrances makes this a workable option for expos, trade or community showcases, workshops and training days needing a breakout room, seminars, AGMs and club meetings, alongside its regular use for dance classes, performing arts, local markets and art exhibitions. The central-city location and low hire cost are the main draws for budget-conscious organisers looking at Tauranga venues.