ASB Bank gets new Wynyard Quarter theatre in motion

The curtain is rising on the long-awaited Auckland Theatre Company's new Wynyard Quarter complex after ASB Bank upped its contribution.

Chief executive Barbara Chapman said the bank had taken naming rights on the new building - a 650-seat theatre at the corner of Halsey St and Madden St, on the waterfront, behind the new ASB Bank head office.

Two years ago, ASB pledged $5 million to the $35 million project but the naming rights are in addition.

Funding has been an issue and two years ago the Herald reported $22 million had been raised.

Barbara Chapman provided no details of how much ASB contributed for the block, to rise on the site of the Moana Pacific Fisheries building, now demolished.

A bank spokesperson said the size of the "significant contribution" could not be disclosed because of commercial sensitivity.

A theatre company statement said Hawkins Construction had been appointed head contractor for the glass-clad building designed by Moller Architects. The block would take 20 months to complete and be open by about mid-2016.

Mayor Len Brown said the theatre would be a welcome addition to the arts scene.

"The ASB Waterfront Theatre will strengthen Auckland's creative economy, further promote Auckland's waterfront as a visitor destination, showcase our thriving performing arts scene and provide a space for us to welcome the very best international artists to the city," Mr Brown said.

"Auckland Council's support kick-started the fundraising campaign for the project three years ago. We are so pleased that Auckland Theatre Company was able to raise the extra funds required to provide this fantastic venue to the Auckland community and our visitors. The ASB Waterfront Theatre is an example of how the public, private and philanthropic sectors can work together to achieve great things for Auckland," Mr Brown said.