The Princess Theatre Experience: Relive West Coast History on the Big Screen

Sit back and relax at Shantytown’s charming Princess Theatre! Settle into authentic period seating within our plush, historic theatre and transport yourself to a bygone era. The Princess Theatre offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich history of New Zealand’s rugged West Coast through captivating archival film footage.

What is The Princess Theatre Experience?

The Princess Theatre at Shantytown is an authentic recreation of a late 19th and early 20th-century cinema. It provides a comfortable and immersive setting to watch historical film reels, offering a visual journey through the defining moments of the West Coast’s development. It’s a perfect spot to take a break and absorb the region’s fascinating past.

What Historical Films Can I Watch?

Our continuously rotating reel of historic West Coast film footage brings to life key aspects of the region’s heritage. You’ll see rare, early imagery featuring:

Gold History: Witness the excitement and challenges of the West Coast gold mining industry.
Snowy Mountains: Discover breathtaking landscapes and the early exploration of the majestic Southern Alps.
Coal Mining: Gain insight into the arduous yet vital work of coal miners who powered the region.
Timber Production: See the bustling sawmills and the vast forests that fueled the West Coast’s economy.

These films showcase real scenes and daily life from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, offering an authentic glimpse into West Coast yesteryear.

How Long are the Films and How Can I Watch?

The historical videos play on a rotation throughout the day, allowing you complete flexibility. There’s no set schedule, so you can:

Pop in and out as you please to catch specific segments.
Stay for a short break to enjoy a glimpse of history.
Relax for longer to soak up as much nostalgia and learn as much as you can handle!

We invite you to find your spot front and centre, sit back, and take in the scenes of industries and landscapes that shaped the West Coast.

Where is The Princess Theatre Located?

The Princess Theatre is conveniently located within the heart of Shantytown Heritage Park, making it an easy stop during your visit. You’ll find it right besdie King Dick’s Cafe and just up the street from the Train Station.

More to Explore After the Show!

After your relaxing journey through cinematic history, there’s much more to see and do at Shantytown Heritage Park. Continue your exploration of the West Coast’s past by visiting:

Our extensive Museum and Heritage Collections for more artifacts and stories.
The working Historic Sawmill to experience another vital industry first-hand.
The pleasant Heritage Train Ride, which follows historic sawmill tram lines.
Or try your hand at gold panning, a cornerstone of the West Coast’s early history.