Auckland
Auckland is the festival hub where film screenings, exhibitions and industry events are held.
The Capitol Cinema
Hosts film screenings | 24 June – 12 July
Download Capitol Cinema schedule
A Balmoral landmark since 1922, The Capitol Cinema is one of Auckland’s oldest and most characterful picture houses. Heritage-listed and beautifully restored, this intimate 132-seat cinema pairs classic charm with plush, comfortable seating and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Capitol presents a carefully curated programme of new-release arthouse cinema, quality commercial films, special events, festivals, and community screenings. Fully licensed, the cinema offers a thoughtful selection of local wines, craft beers, imported favourites, premium gins, sodas and tonics, alongside classic cinema treats and hand-rolled organic Duck Island ice cream.
Located on Dominion Road in Mount Eden, The Capitol sits in the heart of one of Auckland’s most vibrant neighbourhoods, surrounded by restaurants, cafés, antique stores, and hidden gems – perfect for exploring before or after a screening.
The Capitol Cinema is easily accessible by bus, car or train, with nearby parking and public transport stops. It’s just a short walk from Mount Eden Station and a quick drive from Auckland’s city center. If you’re bussing to the Capitol, the 25B and 25L stops right outside and the OuterLink and 650 stop nearby on Balmoral Road.
There is free street parking available near the cinema on Rocklands Ave and on Wiremu Street. Alternatively there is a paid Secure Parking lot behind the cinema (in the old Warehouse car park).
Smith & Caughey’s
Hosts World Press Photo 2026 & Immersive Exhibition | 24 June to 12 July from 10am to 8pm daily.
Download Exhibition schedule
The World Press Photo Exhibition, one of the most respected showcases of photojournalism on the planet, will present the work of 42 awards photographers selected from over 57,000 entries across 142 countries. Alongside it, the Doc Edge Immersive Exhibition invites you to to step beyond the photograph and inside the story, through virtual reality, interactive installation and sensory driven experiences. Together they create a journey from seeing to feeling, from bearing witness to becoming part of the story.
The joint exhibition will be held at the “historic home” the World Press Photo Exhibition, the Smith & Caughey’s building, a true icon of Queen Street. The Smith & Caughey’s building is one of Auckland’s most beloved and recognisable landmarks. With roots deep in the history of Auckland, the store operated for 145 years as one of New Zealand’s best-loved institutions, remaining family-owned throughout.
Accessibility
Main entrance is at 11 Wellesley Street West (corner of Wellesley St and Elliot St). The main exhibition is up a flight of stairs. A staff-assisted lift is available for wheelchair users — call the number displayed at the entrance and someone will be right with you. Once upstairs, the venue is fully accessible on one level.
By Bus – Queen Street is Auckland’s main bus corridor and is served by many routes. Buses stop frequently along Queen Street — look for stops near Wellesley Street or Mayoral Drive, both a short walk from the venue. Use the AT Journey Planner to plan your trip. The City Link bus also runs up and down Queen Street every few minutes.
On Foot – The venue is right on Queen Street, Auckland’s main central street, making it very easy to find on foot from most city hotels.
- From Britomart / Waterfront area: walk up Queen Street heading south — the venue is about a 10 minute walk uphill.
- From Skycity / Sky Tower: walk down Queen Street toward the waterfront — the venue is about a 3–5 minute walk.
- From Aotea Square / Town Hall: the venue is just a short 2 minute walk down Queen Street toward the waterfront.
Look for the historic Smith & Caughey’s building entrance on Queen Street. Festival signage will be in place to guide you in.
By Car – As this is central Auckland, we recommend using a public car park. Two convenient options nearby are:
- Victoria Street Car Park – 30 Kitchener Street (enter via Kitchener St, off Victoria St). Council-owned, open daily 6am–midnight. More info
- Wilson Parking – SAP Tower – Wyndham Street. Open daily 5am–midnight. More info
Note that Queen Street itself is largely pedestrianised, so plan to walk the last short distance from the car park.
Grand Millennium
Hosts the 3-day industry events and the Awards ceremony | 29 June – 1 July
Grand Millennium Auckland is centrally located close to Queen Street and Viaduct Harbour with restaurants and shops on its doorstep making it the ideal place to relax and attend screenings with most convenience.
Grand Millennium Auckland is a 30 – 45 minute drive from Auckland International Airport by taxi or car. Since the hotel is right in the heart of the city, there are numerous bus services to SkyCity which is located just a 10-minute walk away making it easily reachable by public transport. There is also an on-site taxi rank from the hotel if you’re looking to reach other venues from Grand Millennium.
On-site undercover parking available for hotel guests (extra charges apply).
Takapuna Beachside Cinemas
Hosts film screenings | 24 June – 12 July
Download Takapuna Beachside schedule
Welcome to Takapuna Beachside Cinemas, Auckland’s premier luxury boutique cinema located in the heart of the North Shore. For over 100 years, our iconic Big Blue Building at 34 Anzac Street has been a cornerstone of the community. Recently refurbished to offer an elite movie-going experience, we feature plush double couches, cosy blankets and an intimate atmosphere perfect for the ultimate date night. Just steps from Takapuna Beach, we pair the latest blockbusters and arthouse films with hand-craft pizzas, local craft beer, and fine NZ wine. Whether you’re looking for a rainy-day escape or a romantic evening by the sea, experience the personal touch of a locally owned independent cinema that celebrates the magic of the big screen.
Accessibility
There is ramp access to the ground-floor cinema, with a lift available to all cinema levels, and designated wheelchair seating throughout. Please contact us in advance to arrange your seats: call (09) 360 0329 or email tickets@docedge.nz.
By Bus – Take a bus to Takapuna town centre — the closest stop is on Anzac Street, just a short walk from the venue. Use the AT Journey Planner to find the best route from your location. If travelling from the city, take the NX1 Northern Express to Smales Farm, then connect to a local Takapuna service.
By Car – The Anzac Street Car Park (40 Anzac Street) is located directly next door to the cinema and is open 24 hours. Street parking is also available on surrounding roads throughout the Takapuna town centre.
Accommodation
This year, Doc Edge has partnered with Grand Millennium Auckland as our main accommodation provider. Centrally located close to Queen Street and Viaduct Harbour with restaurants and shops on its doorstep making it the ideal place to relax and attend screenings with most convenience. Featuring 452 stylish rooms and suites, quality facilities and dining, as well as parking, make the most of your stay in the heart of cosmopolitan Auckland.
Transportation
Auckland has many public transport options including buses, ferries, and trains for easy and accessible travel. Contactless can be used on all services, or purchase an AT HOP card online or in person at a HOP retailer. For those driving, most venues offer parking facilities – details of which can be found on the individual venue pages. Auckland also has various taxi services, and bike routes if you prefer a more scenic approach.
