About - Baycourt - where the arts come alive
 

About

Baycourt Community & Arts Centre is a place of creativity, discovery and self-expression – where the arts truly come alive!

For over 40 years, Baycourt has been the beating heart of Tauranga’s performing arts scene. From dazzling international acts to heartfelt local productions, it’s where performers of all ages and backgrounds have stepped into the spotlight – and where audiences have been moved, delighted and inspired.

Opened in 1983 by now-King Charles III and the late Princess Diana, Baycourt is a much-loved landmark in the city centre. At its core is the Addison Theatre – a 582-seat proscenium arch auditorium which hosts everything from international touring shows to local school choirs and dance schools. With expert technicians and audio-visual equipment on hand, this theatre is where the magic happens and life-long memories (and friends) are made.

Baycourt is also home to the versatile X Space which can be transformed into a small ‘black box’ theatre, cabaret club, meeting space, cocktail function or anything else you can imagine. Downstairs, the Terrace Rooms and extensive backstage facilities provide even more room for creativity to flourish.

Guided by values of manaakitanga and kaitiakitanga, Baycourt is more than just a venue – it’s a place where stories are shared and where the power of the performing arts uplifts us all.

Come and be part of the story. Nau mai, haere mai– welcome to Baycourt.

Person looking up at history banners

Baycourt history

Baycourt is a cornerstone of Tauranga’s performing arts community and opened to huge fanfare in 1983.

Person playing the mighty wurlitzer

Mighty Wurlitzer

An incredible treasure lies beneath Baycourt’s stage – one of the world’s most famous and rarest theatre pipe organs, the Mighty Wurlitzer.

Children jumping outside Baycourt

Photo gallery

Check out some of the fantastic Baycourt Presents events we’ve hosted recently!