Wellington’s main stage for conferences and indoor events features award-winning architecture and a year-round calendar of music and arts events.
Michael Fowler Centre is a convention centre and concert hall in Wellington’s cultural precinct. The centre, home of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, hosts international opera, theatre, music events and conferences. Attend a classical music performance or visit the centre to admire its striking architecture.
Book tickets for an event in the main auditorium to witness its impressive design. The auditorium can seat more than 2,000 guests for music events, such as classical concerts. Designed by architectural firm Warren and Mahoney in the late 20th century, Michael Fowler Centre is noted for its unique acoustic and spatial features.
The centre also contains a number of spaces for commercial and public events. Find the Fletcher Challenge Foyer on the ground floor. This large area features polished native timber and Italian marble floors. It is regularly used for fine art installations and as a meeting space for conference attendees.
For panoramic views of Wellington Harbour and Civic Square, walk along the centre’s Promenades. These curved spaces are used for expositions and pre-function entertainment areas. Other great event spaces include the Lion Harbourview Lounge and the Frank Taplin Room.
Many nearby attractions, including City Gallery Wellington and Central Library, are located a short walk from Michael Fowler Centre. Wellington Waterfront is less than 1 kilometre (0.6 miles) from the centre. Notice the text sculptures along the waterfront, part of Wellington Writers Walk. The sculptures are a celebration of New Zealand’s best-known writers. The waterfront also features excellent restaurants and cafés with outstanding views of the harbour.
Michael Fowler Centre is about 7 kilometres (4 miles) from Wellington International Airport. With many luxurious hotels and affordable self-catered apartments in the city’s civic and cultural precinct, you’ll find the right place to stay. Use parking available at the centre’s car park. Parking is free on weekends however, time limits apply.
Purchase tickets from the Ticketek box office adjacent to Michael Fowler Centre to experience an event in this excellent multipurpose venue.
