Last updated June 2026
Welcome to Toitoi – Hawke’s Bay Arts and Events Centre, the cultural heart of Hastings. This venue combines the historic Hawke’s Bay Opera House with modern event spaces in the CBD. It hosts theatre, music, dance and community events for audiences of all sizes. The centre honours te ao Māori principles and Te Tiriti o Waitangi while providing state-of-the-art facilities. Visitors enjoy a blend of heritage architecture and contemporary technology in the heart of Hawke’s Bay.
Practical Information
| Address | 101 Hastings Street South, Hastings 4122 |
| Opera House capacity | 979 seats |
| Built | 1915 (refurbished and reopened 2020) |
| Parking | Pay-and-display on-street; free after hours. Two free accessible spots on Eastbourne Street. |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair access, allocated accessible seating, sensory accommodations on request |
| Official website | toitoivenues.co.nz |
About Toitoi
Toitoi – Hawke’s Bay Arts and Events Centre occupies a central position in Hastings CBD. The complex includes the 1915 Opera House and additional heritage and modern buildings that together provide versatile spaces for performances and events.
The Opera House features an opulent Art Nouveau interior and a 240 square metre stage. It ranks among Australasia’s notable lyric theatres and holds Category 1 heritage status. Earthquake strengthening and sensitive restoration were completed before the venue reopened in February 2020.
Toitoi supports a wide range of programming including theatre productions, concerts, dance performances and community festivals. Dedicated technical, catering and event coordination teams assist with events of varying scales. The centre maintains a focus on cultural inclusion and community engagement throughout the year.
Heritage and Architecture
The Hawke’s Bay Opera House forms the historic core of Toitoi. Constructed in 1915 as the Hastings Municipal Theatre, it displays Spanish Mission-style exterior elements and intricate Art Nouveau interior details. Restoration work has preserved its original character while meeting modern safety and accessibility standards.
Additional buildings within the complex, including the Municipal Building, contribute further heritage value. The overall site blends preserved architecture with contemporary additions to create a distinctive venue in Hastings.
Facilities and Event Spaces
Toitoi offers multiple configurable spaces. The Opera House accommodates up to 979 people for performances and can also host smaller banquets or plenary sessions on stage. Functions on Hastings provides 660 square metres of floor space suitable for up to 600 guests at cocktail events.
Other areas include the Cushing Foyer and additional rooms in the Municipal Building. All spaces feature modern lighting, sound and audio-visual systems supported by on-site technical staff. Catering is available through a partnership with Dish Catering.
Accessibility and Getting There
Toitoi provides wheelchair access throughout the venue and allocated accessible seating for performances. Visitors are encouraged to book accessible seats in advance through the box office. Sensory accommodations can be arranged on request.
On-street parking operates on a pay-and-display basis during business hours and is free after hours. Two free accessible parking spaces are located on Eastbourne Street. Additional pay-and-display options exist nearby on Heretaunga, Hastings and Queen Streets East, with after-hours access to the Baker Tilly car park.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors frequently praise the beautiful historic Opera House interior combined with excellent modern sound and lighting. Many note the welcoming atmosphere and helpful staff during performances and events.
Reviewers often highlight the convenient central location and the variety of shows ranging from local productions to touring acts. Several mention smooth ticketing and good accessibility features.
Where to Learn More
Hastings District Council: Official page with venue overview and links to bookings.
Toitoi Venues: Detailed venue specifications, seating plans and current events.
Toitoi Plan Your Visit: Practical details on parking, accessibility and ticketing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of events are hosted at Toitoi?
Toitoi hosts theatre productions, live music concerts, dance performances, comedy shows and community festivals in its range of spaces.
Is parking available at Toitoi?
Yes. Pay-and-display on-street parking is available nearby and becomes free after business hours. Two free accessible spaces are located on Eastbourne Street.
Does Toitoi offer accessible facilities?
Yes. The venue provides wheelchair access, allocated accessible seating and sensory accommodations available on request.
Can private events be booked at Toitoi?
Yes. Multiple spaces are available for conferences, banquets, meetings and other private functions with capacities from small groups to several hundred guests.
What is the seating capacity of the Opera House?
The Opera House seats 979 people for performances and can also be configured for smaller banquets or plenary sessions.
When was the Opera House built and refurbished?
The Opera House was built in 1915. It underwent earthquake strengthening and restoration before reopening in February 2020.
How do I buy tickets for events?
Tickets are available through the box office at the Hastings iSITE on Heretaunga Street East or via Eventfinda online.
Does Toitoi incorporate Māori cultural elements?
Yes. The centre integrates te ao Māori principles and honours Te Tiriti o Waitangi in its programming and operations.
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