Michael Fowler Centre

The Michael Fowler Centre is Wellington's principal concert hall and large-format conference venue, at 111 Wakefield Street in the civic precinct beside Te Ngakau Civic Square.

History and design

Commissioned in 1975 to replace the Town Hall, it opened to the public in 1983. It was designed by Miles Warren and Maurice Mahoney of Warren and Mahoney and is named after then-mayor Sir Michael Fowler. It is known for its acoustics and native timber interior, and is home to the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra. Wellington City Council's information notes the building has an earthquake-prone rating and is safe to occupy.

Spaces and capacities

According to the venue, the auditorium holds about 2,200 as a conference plenary or 2,209 for performance layouts. Other spaces include:

• Renouf Foyer (450 sqm): 400 theatre, up to 500 or 1,000 cocktail, 28 exhibition stands
• Lion Harbourview Lounge (140 sqm): 140 theatre, 180 cocktail, harbour views
• Frank Taplin Room (144 sqm): 80 theatre
• VIP Room (36 sqm): 24 theatre

Access

There is no public parking on site, though street parking and nearby car parks exist. Lift access, wheelchair spaces and an audio loop are available.

See also Wellington venues.