Blockbusters, Arthouse Gems and Comfy Couches by the Beach
Tucked into the big blue building at 34 Anzac Street, Takapuna Beachside Cinema is a permanent, locally owned boutique cinema in the heart of Takapuna on Auckland’s North Shore, around 250 metres from the beach. Trading as Monterey Cinemas Takapuna, it’s an indoor four-screen cinema (not a seasonal outdoor pop-up) that’s been the suburb’s local movie theatre for over 100 years. Expect lounge-style seating, in-cinema dining and genuinely budget-friendly deals for the whole family.
Why Families Love Beachside Cinema
This is an independent, community-owned cinema rather than a chain multiplex, and it shows.
- Comfy, varied seating: Across four digital screens you’ll find couches with pillows and tables, armchairs and some traditional seats — so kids and toddlers can settle in properly.
- In-cinema cafe and dining: Fresh coffee, hot popcorn, ice cream, pizza, Boba drinks and a bar. Arrive a little early, grab a snack in the lobby and relax before the film. (Not BYO — plan to buy food and drink on site.)
- Something for everyone: Mainstream new releases and blockbusters alongside classics, independent films and festivals.
- A relaxed social space: Regular community sessions like Besties and Bubbles on Tuesday nights and Coffee and Biscuit on weekdays.
- Easy with little ones: Free parking right outside makes the whole outing simple with prams and car seats.
2026 Ticket Pricing & Deals (NZD)
The cinema doesn’t publish a single flat price online — tickets are set per session and priced when you book at takapunamovies.co.nz, so check the day’s programme. The regular deals are where the real value sits.
- Wicked Wednesday: $10 tickets every Wednesday for everyone, no exceptions.
- Sunday-morning special: $10 on sessions before midday.
- Best-value windows: Discounts generally run Sunday through Wednesday, and kids’ tickets are cheaper during the school holidays.
- Birthday options: $15 per child (movie only) or a $20 package adding a small popcorn and drink to a private cinema and movie ticket.
Booking online in advance locks in your session and seats.
Getting There by Public Transport
Takapuna Beachside Cinema is easy to reach on AT Metro buses into the Takapuna town centre.
- Nearest stops: Hop off at the Anzac Street stops beside Shore City Shopping Centre — the cinema is just metres away (about 199m / a three-minute walk). Stop A/B Takapuna and the Takapuna Bus Station are a one-to-two-minute walk.
- Routes serving central Takapuna: 82, 83, 94, 845, 801 and 814 (plus 843, 856 and 871) — plenty of options from across the North Shore and the city.
- By ferry: No direct passenger ferry to Takapuna; the nearest terminal is Devonport, with a connecting bus from there.
- Driving? Free kerb-side parking right outside (free after 6pm weekdays and on Sundays), a paid lot adjacent and free side-street parking nearby.





